The following message is on behalf of Stuart Miller, Director of Education for the Halton District School Board
The Halton District School Board joins communities across the world in condemning the violence and subsequent loss of lives in Christchurch, New Zealand. We extend our sympathy to the families of those killed and injured in this senseless violence.
Tragic events such as this may impact all of us - students, families, staff, and friends in many ways - grief, anxiety, anger, helplessness; some may feel unsafe, threatened or intimidated.
As educators we are committed to preserving a learning environment in which students and staff are treated with respect.
When we return from Spring Break on Monday, March 18, no general school announcements will be made due to the range in age and maturity of our elementary and secondary school students, and to allow parents to determine how to address this news at home.
Resources have been provided to our school staff to help them support students in an appropriate way. Our principals and teachers will respond to student concerns as they arise and will address any concerns with parents directly. It is important that all members of our school communities know that we are here to support them.
We are also sharing the following
resources to support you with conversations you may have with your child.
Sincerely,
Stuart Miller
Director of Education
A message to HDSB staff from Stuart Miller, Director of Education on Tuesday, March 19, 2019
Thank you to HDSB staff for standing in solidarity with our Muslim students, families and community members in condemning the senseless attacks on those who had gathered for peaceful worship in Christchurch, New Zealand last week. You have expressed great care in ensuring all our students feel safe and have a genuine sense of belonging. Such acts of hate, intolerance and oppression have never been tolerated in our schools. Thank you for making the well-being of students our first priority, particularly during these difficult times. For those in need of support, please refer to the resources shared in your respective staff conferences. Together we are building school communities that are respectful and inclusive; ones where the actions of extremists are not able to divide us.
Together in peace, Stuart Miller