CSD Parent Letter: Recent National Events
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Dear Cedarburg Families,
The Cedarburg School District is committed to the social and emotional well-being of our students. The events over the past few weeks have forced all of us to now cope with a wide range of emotions and reactions. As a school system, we are committed to our mission of challenging all students to achieve their goals and dreams. That means being reflective and intentional in our dialogue on critical issues through:
- deepening our understanding of justice and race in our world through coursework, dialogue, experiences, and action;
- valuing diversity in our thinking and creative problem-solving;
- respecting courage, forward-thinking and peaceful resolutions;
- expecting inclusive practices that promote collaboration and camaraderie; and
- promoting tolerance, equity and understanding.
As a system, we are committed to improving our practices and understandings that promote and reflect our district and community values.
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Children of all ages will be experiencing these national events differently and may need additional support. We understand that the news may bring about fear, anger, confusion, and/or other uncomfortable feelings. They may begin asking difficult questions about what is going on in the world around them. Today, we are reaching out to families and providing a list of resources that will support parents/guardians in facilitating conversations regarding racism, recent tragic events in Minneapolis, amongst others, and the national unrest. We are encouraging you to take the time to talk with your child, and to help with this conversation, the
National Association of School Psychologists
has resources available for talking with children about violence and race.
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If we were able to be together as a school community during this time, we would be hosting or creating space for students to process their feelings and examine steps we can take against racism and injustice. For students who may need someone to talk to, we encourage you to reach out to your building school counselor, school psychologist, or our school resource officer. Below is a list of providers and their contact information. We have also developed a list of resources on how to talk to children during these times of crisis and are included below for your review.
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The social and emotional well-being of our students starts with working together to support those who are hurting. We are committed to ensuring all individuals feel they belong, are respected, valued, and capable regardless of race, gender, class, religion, sexual orientation, or any other aspect of their identity. Every day, our schools strive to ensure that all students achieve an excellent education, focused on preparing students for college, career, and citizenship. We value individual human differences and commit to establishing and maintaining a culture that embraces diversity, equity, and inclusion. These values are critical to the development, learning, and success of all our students, and align with our district’s mission and goals around global citizenship. Now more than ever, compassion and collaboration are needed to overcome the challenges of the health crisis and social injustice.
Despite this time of uncertainty, it is also a time for hope and inspiration. Please take this opportunity to review the list of resources below and reach out to a building Student Services provider for support, if needed. Thank you for your partnership, collaboration, and ongoing support as we work together to ensure all of our children have the support they need.
Respectfully,
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Todd Bugnacki
Superintendent
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Ted Noll
Director of Student Services
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CSD Student Services Providers
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Race/Diversity Conversation Resources
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These and other resources can also be found on the district website under
health services
.
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