May 25
Dear Parents and Caregivers,
By now, you are all likely very well aware of the tragedy which took place in Uvalde, Texas on May 25. The fact that this act represents yet another in a long line of school shooting tragedies is especially traumatizing for our students, families, and the adults who work with them. Violence at a school on this scale is nearly impossible to process. Our hearts are broken; we are angry; we are frustrated.
We know that students today may be looking to you and us for reassurances, comfort, and understanding, and yet we all know that there’s not one universal way in which adults or children cope with or respond to tragedies. Emotions from fear to shock to anger likely impact us. The most important thing we can do is be there for them and each other. We should not put the burden on ourselves to have the right answers as we all know that there are no words that can explain a tragedy like this.
Please know that as a school, we are constantly reflecting and working on improving the safety for our kids and employees. We have regular conversations among administration, law enforcement and members of our safety teams to fine tune and improve our systems. We had meetings on topics like this as recently as yesterday and have a regularly scheduled meeting tomorrow with our district safety team. We care and are dedicated to supporting our whole school community.
Our team of counselors, social workers, psychologists, and teachers stand at the ready to assist children and families who are struggling. Please do not hesitate to contact the counselor or psychologist in your child’s school if you are in need of support.
Thank you for your understanding, support, and trusting us in the care of our children. We must work together to have the safest environment possible for everyone in our school community.
Best,
Jeremy P. Palotti
Superintendent of Schools
Hornell City School District
