1/15/21 Correspondence

Good afternoon Cranford Community,

 

I hope this correspondence finds you well as we continue to be in extremely challenging times.   It is hard to believe the pandemic has impacted all of us for close to an entire year.  Certainly, the news of vaccines and widening distribution is cause for increased optimism and  I will continue to provide you with information regarding vaccines as I receive it.  However, let’s please not let our guard down and continue to implement all school protocols and procedures with fidelity as we all have a shared responsibility to help keep our community safe.  I am confident that Cranford’s resilience and support of one another will see us through to better times.  Towards this end,  I want to thank everyone  for their outstanding partnership so far in helping us to navigate these difficult times together.  Although this school year is not how any of us would have desired or even imagined, Cranford has a lot to be proud of in the way it has managed this health emergency and continues to be a model for working closely with its partners for the good of all.  

 

In addition to our challenges associated with COVID-19, the recent attack on the Capitol building has left us all with a wide range of emotions, feelings, and questions.  Earlier this week, parents / guardians received an email from their respective principals, providing resources to assist families in discussing this tragic event.  

 

I am listing them again here for your easy reference:

 

Discussing Difficult Situations With Your Children - National Parent Teacher Association (PTA)

Talking to Children About Violence: Tips for Parents and Teachers - National Association of School Psychologists (NASP)

Promoting Compassion and Acceptance in Crisis - National Association of School Psychologists (NASP)

Supporting Children After the US Capitol Attack - National Child Traumatic Stress Network (NCTSN) 

How To Talk With Your Child About News - Kids Health

 

These are also posted on our District School Counseling Website (under the parents/guardians tab) and we will continue to add support resources as appropriate.

 

As you may be aware, there are reports or warnings throughout the country of possible future threats being planned.  Please know that we will continue to equip our staff with relevant resources and they will continue to respond to questions and hold class discussions in a safe manner as appropriate.  Additionally, our counseling staff is always prepared and available to provide support.  If you think your child may need additional assistance, please do not hesitate to contact your child's principal, teacher, or the school counselor directly.  

 

It is critically important for each of us to reflect on why most, if not all, school districts are closed on Monday in honor of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.   He fought for the equal rights of all and espoused that individuals need to communicate with one another in a non-violent way.  As we reflect on his legacy, let’s recognize that there is still work to be done towards fulfilling this dream and let’s remind ourselves that each one of us has a role in helping to form the world in which we live.  

Thank you for your continued partnership.  Be well and stay safe!

 

Sincerely,

Scott Rubin