Statement And Resources Following The Verdict In The Derek Chauvin Trial In Washington County School

Woodbury MN

21 April, 2021

6:56 AM

Description

Press release from South Washington County Schools: April 20, 2021 Dear South Washington County Schools Families, "The verdict in the Derek Chauvin trial has brought strong emotions from students, staff and families. Our students are deeply impacted when they see a steady stream of stories of unjust killings of Black men, women and children. Families of color have shared with me their fear of going outside or worrying about their child walking down the street. Other families told me about the questions from their young children on whether police are "good" or "bad". We also have families who have decided to keep their children at home. It's important to know that our children are watching and waiting to see how we respond. Each killing opens wounds and trauma that deeply affect the social and mental health of our students, colleagues and families. We know this because our students have told us and they continue to be powerful voices and agents of change amid the ongoing discussions of race, police brutality and issues in education. Following George Floyd's murder, it was our own students who challenged us to respond to the national discussions of racism in society. They shared personal stories of uncomfortable things happening in our schools and brought forth ideas and solutions to make all students feel welcome. As a direct result of their advocacy, the School Board passed the racial equity resolution with action steps that are now being implemented. To help students process their feelings on the verdict and what is happening in our communities, our schools will provide spaces for constructive and age-appropriate conversations. Whether in the classroom or another identified safe space at school, our social workers, counselors, psychologists and cultural liaisons will be available this week to support students. We understand that these conversations may be uncomfortable, but we value student voice and anticipate the need for students to share their feelings. Times and locations will be shared with students directly at each of our schools. We also encourage you to have discussions at home about the events that are occurring in our country, in our state and our communities. There are several resources below to help in these conversations with your child. Please also reach out to your school principal if you feel your child needs additional support. School will remain in session this week. If you do not wish to send your child to school tomorrow, please call your school's attendance line to report an absence as usual. When dealing with trauma, civil and social unrest, systemic racism and death, it is important to understand that our schools and our students are affected. One of the main purposes of education is to teach students to be thoughtful citizens, and that includes compassion and understanding for others different from themselves. It means helping students understand current events and why they're happening. South Washington County Schools believes civil rights and racial justice in the classroom are not controversial, nor will we stay silent when students speak out to hold us accountable. Our students – our children – are watching and they need us now more than ever to listen, to understand and to love them." Sincerely, Julie Nielsen Superintendent This press release was produced by South Washington County Schools. The views expressed here are the author's own.