Oswego 308 Schools Offering Counseling, Support in Wake of Newtown Tragedy

Update 3:00 p.m. Monday:

The District posted this announcement on their website Monday afternoon:

We extend our sympathy to the families and community in Newtown, Connecticut for the tragic loss they have experienced. As with any incident that affects students, we share in their grief for the victims. Our thoughts are also focused on the safety of our own precious children who attend our schools. 

The following links will provide resources which may help you address this event with your child.  In addition, if your child has any difficulty processing the information he/she has heard, please reach out to your school counselor, social worker or administrator for assistance.  

• Report to Parents: Helping Children Cope with Tragedy
• Public Broadcasting System:  Talking with Kids About News
• Emotional Recovery After a Disaster
• http://www.nasponline.org/

School District 308 strives to provide your children with both a nurturing and safe environment in which to learn. Our schools have comprehensive School Emergency and Crisis Response Plans that have been approved by the Illinois State Board of Education. The plans are developed and regularly reviewed in cooperation with staff, local law enforcement agencies and fire departments. School district employees are involved in emergency training and drills in the school buildings under the guidance of the police and fire departments and district administration.

In light of the horrific event at Sandy Hook Elementary School and our own concerns in our school district, please know that schools remain one of the safest places for children and we take this responsibility very seriously.  By working in partnership with families, first responders and other emergency personnel we will continue to insure the safety of our children.

Original story:

Oswego 308 schools are offering counseling services to all students in wake of the Newtown, Conn. school shooting last Friday.

“It’s very difficult to process for anyone, but especially children,” said Director of Communications Kristine Liptrot. 

She said each school has different approaches depending on what level the students are, but all will have counselors and social workers available through this week.

Liptrot said if parents are worried about their student, they can call the school to arrange for a social worker or counselor to talk to their child. Students are also encouraged to seek out a trusted adult at the school if they would like to talk.

Many schools will be participating in a moment of silence for the Newtown victims.

All flags will be flying at half-mast until further notification from Governor Quinn's Office on behalf of the tragedy at Sandy Hook Elementary School.