Dear Families and Staff,

This week I was fortunate enough to attend a presentation by one of the founders of Sandy Hook Promise, a non-partisan national nonprofit formed and led by several family members whose loved ones were killed at Sandy Hook Elementary School almost six years ago. The sole purpose of Sandy Hook Promise is to prevent gun violence before it happens.

Their "Know the Signs" programs and practices teach youth and adults to recognize signs and signals of individuals who may be at risk of hurting themselves or others and to intervene to get them help. Over 70% of people who hurt themselves or others tell someone of their plans or give some type of warning or indication. These foreshadowings often show up on social media where their peers see them but are reluctant to tell an adult about them. One reason kids don't tell their parents about another kid's violent plans is because they fear their parents will take their phone away if they know they're on social media that they're not supposed to be. Much like the pass you'll no doubt give your kids if they call you from a party and have no sober way home, this situation warrants a conversation about the relative importance of a life versus a temporary consequence.

"Know the Signs" practices have been successful in stopping violence and helping youth receive mental health and wellness assistance. We are exploring the implementation of them in our schools and I hope you will take the time to learn more at here.