June 2, 2020
Dear Rockland Public Schools Community,
While we continue to navigate through the Covid-19 pandemic, on May 25th we were confronted by video footage of the senseless murder of an African-American man, George Floyd, and the historic protests, both peaceful and violent, that have erupted in cities across the nation and world, including here in Boston. As educators, we have an obligation to help young people make sense of the world and to guide them toward creating a more fair and just society. Just as Covid-19 has highlighted racial and economic inequities in our society, the death of George Floyd is a reminder that institutional racism exists and must be acknowledged and addressed.
Schools play an important role in shaping the hearts and minds of children. If we are to become the truly free, forward-thinking nation we aspire to be, we must recommit ourselves to social justice and peace through education. Rockland Public Schools is committed to promoting social justice and racial equality in our schools. In the fall and beyond, faculty and staff will engage in targeted professional development activities to support their work with students in this area.
Now, more than ever, students need adult support to make sense of what they are seeing on TV and online. Here are three resources that may be helpful as we work together to support all of our children.
Supporting Vulnerable Students in Stressful Times: Tips for Parents
Talking to Kids About Discrimination (American Psychological Association)
As a school community, we want you to know that our staff is here to support you. Please reach out to any of our building principals or to me with any questions or concerns.
Sincerely,
Alan Cron, Ed.D.
Superintendent