D225 Superintendent Responds to Connecticut Shooting

The following letter was provided by Glenview/Northbrook District 225.

Dear Glenbrook Parents/Guardians,

A terrible tragedy took place today at Sandy Hook Elementary School in Newtown, Connecticut that brings deep sadness and concern to school communities everywhere. According to media sources, 27 people have died, 18 of those being children. More information will be known in the next several days.

The safety and security of our students and staff is a top priority and this tragedy serves as a reminder of the importance of following the safety protocols that have been established in our schools. The Glenbrook High Schools have taken significant steps in recent years to secure entrances and screen all visitors to the school. Each school works closely with their village police department and a police liaison officer is on duty during the school day at each school.

During the summer and early fall, the crisis plans and safety protocols were revised and emergency drills were conducted at each school involving police and fire departments. If an emergency occurs, efforts will be made to communicate with you through the AlertNow system by utilizing automated phone calls and e-mails.

We encourage you to take time this weekend to discuss this tragedy with your student(s). Counselors and social workers will be available on Monday to work with students and staff. It is important to remember that we all share a level of responsibility for keeping our children and schools safe.  We encourage all members of the school community to contact either school staff or their local village police department whenever they encounter or witness behavior that may be of concern.

As we enter the weekend, please keep the students and parents of Sandy Hook Elementary, their families and the community of Newton, Connecticut in your thoughts and prayers.

Sincerely,

Michael D. Riggle
Superintendent