Sandy Hook Shootings: Avon Sends Message to Parents

The following message was sent by Avon Superintendent Mike Laub and the school district to parents regarding the Sandy Hook School District shootings.

"We are saddened to hear of the tragic events that unfolded in Connecticut today.  Our hearts go out to the families and community of Newtown.

During this time it is important to communicate that the Avon Local School District understands that all communities need to do their best to be prepared for crisis situations.  We also wanted to send to you a reminder that our district has a crisis plan in place to respond to emergency situations.  We work very closely with the Avon Police and Fire Departments to not only review our plans annually, but to make adjustments and practice those plans.

As part of that plan, each school participates in lockdown drills that Avon Police officers periodically participate in or review.  In fact, the Avon Schools and the City of Avon partner for safety in our school buildings.  Officers help us each year to review and refine our plans.

Counselors in our schools are trained to help students and staff through crisis situations.  Those counselors also have initiated programs within our buildings to encourage students to bring their concerns to any staff member.  We have developed a communication system for our school community that allows us to provide accurate information promptly.  This may mean communicating multiple times, but we have utilized our website and call alert system as sources of information.

Today’s tragic event in Connecticut is a sobering and unfortunate reminder that we need to remain vigilant in keeping safety as a first priority.  We are committed to doing so.

We want to remind our students that the most effective way to prevent violence, threats and bullying is to turn to a trusted adult.  If a parent or child is made aware of a threat or concern that could impact the safety of others, we ask that they please report that information to the school principal, teacher, or counselor.

Thank you for all you do to help us maintain a safe environment in our Avon Schools."