Dear Families:

The Edmonds School District is a caring community and regardless of our role, we all work to make positive things happen in the lives of our students. Additionally, we must reinforce with students that they too have an important part to play in school safety. In an age appropriate way, please take some time with your family to review these concepts with them. Please thank them in advance for accepting their part in our collective safety by treating everyone with dignity and respect in how they interact with others in their own school.

If a student hears about any student in possession of a gun, weapon, or simply getting into unhealthy lifestyles (especially life-threatening), they need to share this with an adult, local authorities, with us, or use the “Safe Schools Tipline” at (425) 431-7010. We review these messages and respond accordingly and it is a safe way for a student to report concerns and not be intimidated by their peer culture. Students need to know they may be the first ones to hear about these things with one of their classmates. Help students understand that it is in everyone’s best interest for them to report. They need to feel safe in reporting and know that we will listen and respond.

Too often students feel that they cannot share or open up if they are struggling with some emotional issues. They fear being judged by peers or even adults if they have a “problem” in this area. Each of us knows how important it is to feel psychologically safe. If any of our staff see a student who needs support and for any reason they cannot provide it in that moment, we expect the staff person to make sure that the student gets connected to the trained staff we have who can help them along that path. It may only be for a short journey, but the caring and capable hands of the right person can lead a student through the forest of despair in which some feel lost.

It cannot be emphasized enough the importance of each person’s part in school safety. Students, staff, parents, and caring people in the community must embrace the opportunity and accept the personal and collective responsibility for being part of this system that helps to ensure everyone’s safety. We can and will continue to do safety related drills and take relevant precautions based on dealing with any events that may happen in schools. However, the proactive work to make sure the culture and climate of our schools are safe, inclusive, and welcoming is the most constructive thing we can do for people and for school safety.

As always, if you have questions or need assistance, please give us a call. Thank you for the caring and competent work you do and for helping your students understand how they too can be an active part of school safety.

Sincerely,

Nick Brossoit
Superintendent