Dear Families,

In the wake of the recent school shooting in Parkland, Florida, many students are looking for ways to honor those who lost their lives and to influence change. The national efforts to coordinate student walkouts to remember the victims of this tragedy and to advocate for safer schools is an example of this activism.

We are aware that some of our students plan to participate in a walkout on March 14. Please know we are neither promoting nor opposing this walkout. However, our principals are actively discussing this issue with student leaders to ensure that it is used as a learning experience and lesson in civic engagement. Each building has designated a safe location for the students to assemble during the walkout.

Additionally, school and district administration are having conversations with staff and local law enforcement to ensure that all students remain safe during the walkout. Staff members will be on-hand to help supervise and maintain the safety of students. During this time, classes will continue on their regular schedule. If your child is planning to join, please talk with them about why they plan to participate. These types of conversations can provide the best learning opportunities for our students.

As a district, we are planning to engage our students in meaningful conversations around the topic of school safety. I have scheduled meetings with students to hear their thoughts on this topic and to share ways that the district is working to ensure that we are providing a safe and secure learning environment. Additionally, we are continually looking for areas of improvement in relation to school safety.

Thank you for your partnership in our school safety efforts.

Sincerely,

Erin J. MacGregor, Ed.S.

Superintendent

Howell Public Schools