Faith • Family • Future
A Message from Our Head of Schools
December 1, 2021
 
Dear Shrine Family,

As we struggle to understand the tragic events that unfolded yesterday at Oxford High School in Oakland County, I write to assure you that student safety is of the utmost importance at Shrine Catholic Schools. Earlier you received communications from our principals regarding our prayerful response and safety protocols. 
  
Over the past years we have unfortunately witnessed many other school tragedies which directly prompted improved safety measures in our schools:
 
  • All doors to our schools are locked or monitored 24/7 
  • ALICE training for teachers and staff
  • Close relationship with Royal Oak police
  • Safety Drills throughout the year
  • Emergency protocols

Besides the physical safety of our students we also look to protect their mental and spiritual welfare. Andrea Foley with Catholic Charities has compiled some resources that are available to be shared as needed with teachers and parents as we support students, children, and one another in processing these tragic events.

American Psychological Association – Talking to your children about school shootings

Harvard Graduate School of Education – Usable Knowledge – Coping with Communities in Crisis

The National Child Traumatic Stress Network – Talking to Children About the Shooting

In addition, Oakland Community Health Network (OCHN) has released tips for families and individuals to manage stress or trauma associated with the local crisis found at https://www.oaklandchn.org/.

Tomorrow at the end of the school day our high school and academy students are invited to participate in a prayer service for the victims and their families as well as the entire Oxford Community. As a Catholic school system we look to our God for strength during this difficult time.  
 
God Bless,

Joanne Swan Jones
Head of Schools

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