Montgomery County Public Schools released the following message on Wednesday, May 25:
Dear MCPS Community,
In the wake of the horrific tragedy in Uvalde, Texas, we in MCPS and the greater Montgomery County community are heartbroken. Collectively, we extend our thoughts and condolences to the Robb Elementary School families and community. We are all impacted by this violence, which generates questions and concerns about our own safety and the safety of our loved ones as we travel to and from work and school and live our everyday lives. The reality is that we must all remain vigilant and work together to do everything in our power to keep our students and staff safe. Safety is our top priority.
Physical Safety
Every day, we work with our partners in the MCPS Department of School Safety and Emergency Management and the Montgomery County Police Department to provide a safe environment for students and staff. Well-trained school staff and security personnel, Community Engagement Officers and police partners, ensure our school environment is a welcoming and safe place to teach and learn. We are reminding everyone to:
- acknowledge feelings of uncertainty, fear, anger and confusion that students may have about this tragedy;
- encourage them to ask for help from you or other trusted adults in the school; and
- report any suspicious behavior or threats to school or police.
MCPS has a renewed agreement with local partners that strengthens the relationship with our Community Engagement Officers, which is a significant step in ensuring the physical safety of our school buildings.
Mental Health and Wellness Safety
We must show strength and care as we work together to do all we can to keep one another safe. Below are a number of resources that provide tips for talking to your child about violence. MCPS encourages students to reach out to trusted adults to ask for help. These school-based mental health and counseling services are always available to students.
Important Resources
- American Psychological Association: How to help in an emotional crisis
www.apa.org/helpcenter - American Psychological Association: Helping your child manage distress in the aftermath of a shooting https://www.apa.org/topics/gun-violence-crime/shooting-aftermath
From MCPS
- Be Well 365 https://www.montgomeryschoolsmd.org/departments/studentservices/wellbeing/index-new.aspx
- Office of Student Family Support and Engagement https://www.montgomeryschoolsmd.org/departments/studentservices/
Important Support Phone Lines
- Montgomery County Crisis Hotline—301-738-2255
- Maryland Safe Schools Tip Line—833-MD-B-SAFE
- Montgomery County Crisis Center—240-777-4000
Montgomery County Public Schools