After every episode of school violence, I find myself grappling with a flood of emotions that range from utter sadness to worry to anger.
While there is intense political debate taking place across our country as to how we prevent future school shootings, I find myself focusing on the one way I know to foster a positive climate and reduce the chances of school violence: relationships.
I wholeheartedly believe that we reduce the chances of school violence, as well as other issues like bullying, when we focus on building positive relationships with each other.
My sincere hope is that our students know we care about them and that they will talk with us when something is wrong and ask for our help to solve their problems. In light of the school shootings in Florida, let’s renew our focus on building positive relationships across the Gorham School District.
Please know that we are constantly reviewing our emergency procedures, have conducted a number of training sessions with the Gorham Police Department, and continue to focus on school safety.
This includes class meetings last year and this year with students to review emergency procedures and answer students’ questions, and we plan to do this again. My number one priority is the safety of students and staff.
With this said, I encourage students to not hesitate to reach out to a principal or assistant principal, a school counselor or social worker, or a School Resource Officer if you have any questions or concerns.
We are fortunate to live in a wonderful community with lots of support, but if recent events have taught us anything, it is that we must remain vigilant and continue to focus on positive relationships and kindness.