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November 20, 2022
Dear DCSD Staff and Families,
As we head into the Thanksgiving week, it’s a time to gather with loved ones, show love and gratitude for our families and friends, and reflect on our blessings.
Sadly, many in the Colorado Springs community had that taken away just days before the holiday. Our hearts are absolutely breaking for those impacted by the senseless tragedy that took place at Club Q last night. This type of violence is difficult to fathom. We do applaud the heroes that took down the gunman, but ultimately 5 people still lost their lives with many others injured. Please join us in sending our thoughts and prayers to the victims, those who lost or nearly lost a loved one, and all who were impacted by this tragedy, as their lives and Thanksgiving holiday will never be the same.
When a shooting like this happens, particularly when it’s just an hour away from our community, it can raise questions for our families and staff about school safety right here in DCSD. I want to reassure you that nothing is more important than the safety of our students and staff. Here in DCSD we continuously evaluate (and re-evaluate) our safety protocols. To learn more about safety in our schools, please see my recent interview with Safety and Security Director Jonny Grusing and our Safety and Security webpage.
Families, students and staff also play a critical role in keeping our schools safe. Please report any suspicious behavior or security concerns to your school’s principal or anonymously via Safe2Tell.
Hearing about a shooting, especially when it’s directed at a specific community, in this case, our LGBTQ+ community, can cause anxiety and trauma for both adults and children. Below are links to some resources to assist you in talking with your child if needed.
Please join me in keeping those impacted by last night’s tragedy in your hearts. I hope you are able to hold your loved ones a little closer this Thanksgiving.
Sincerely,
Erin Kane
Superintendent
Douglas County School District
Resources