Newtown Tragedy: Nyack Schools Superintendent Reacts

In reaction to Friday's tragedy in Newtown, CT, Nyack schools Superintendent James J. Montesano said the district will be reviewing safety procedures used at local schools.

As he expressed the district's condolences to those affected by the deadly incident, Montesano also assured Nyack district residents that there is no credible information to indicate any threat to local schools. Montesano also said Nyack on Monday will have counselors available to assist children who may have lingering fears from the Newtown incident.

Here's message Montesano posted for Nyack district parents:

I know that I speak for everyone in the Nyack School District in extending our deepest sympathies to those impacted by the tragic and senseless shooting that occurred at Sandy Hook Elementary School in Newtown, CT. Our thoughts and prayers will remain with the Sandy Hook families who have endured the most unthinkable acts of school violence ever recorded. On Monday, when we return to school, our counselors will be available to assist any child who might have lingering fears or concerns.

While the Newtown, CT tragedy is believed to be an isolated incident and there is no credible information to indicate there is any threat to any schools in our area, our school district will be reviewing all of our safety procedures. All of our school buildings are staffed with security guards, many of whom are retired police officers trained in law enforcement tactics. School buildings have restrictive access with procedures in place to ensure that only those who belong in schools are permitted to enter. We recognize that no school is impenetrable, however, we will remain vigilant to ensure every effort is made to protect our students and staff.

I would like to respectfully suggest that you exercise discretion in what your children are exposed to with respect to media coverage during the next few days. Reassure your children that they are safe and that the person who caused this tragedy cannot hurt anyone else. I am enclosing links to several websites that provide information from professionals that you may find helpful in communicating with your child:

http://www.healthychildren.org/English/safety-prevention/at-home/Pages/Talking-to-Children-About-Disasters.aspx
http://www.nasponline.org/resources/crisis_safety/talkingviolence.pdf
http://parentinginsights.net/
http://www.apa.org/centrodeapoyo/escolar.aspx

Please know that we continue to work at maintaining a safe environment for everyone in our schools.