Dear Abington School District Community,
The current anger, fear, and racial divide in this country resulting from the tragic death of Mr. George Floyd–an unarmed black man who was killed by a police officer kneeling on his neck while he was handcuffed in Minneapolis–is having a significant negative impact on many children, as well as adults, in our Abington School District community. We recognize how painful this senseless tragedy is for many members of our community. While conversations about race may be difficult to have, it is essential that they take place in order for our community and our children to move forward. As a school district, it is important for us to continue to commit to our shared values that: diversity is a strength and an asset; every individual has equal human value; and that a secure and safe environment and peaceful conflict resolution are essential to learning and to society. In this letter you will find information and resources available to you and your student(s) about support services offered through Abington School District; resources about how parents and guardians can talk to their children about race, diversity, equity, and inclusion; and our professional development efforts in this area.
Please know that our staff is available for you and your students. If you would like to talk with someone, you are able to contact their teachers, our Student Services staff (school counselors, school psychologists, school social worker), or any of their school administrators. If you do not know how to contact Student Services staff, please see the department’s web page for contact information.
In Abington Schools our curriculum provides opportunities to discuss racial issues through various lessons and initiatives, including our commitment to No Place for Hate. As we are currently in an unconventional learning environment, we want to offer you developmentally appropriate resources to discuss these recent events with your children. This is not a one-time conversation, but rather an open and ongoing discussion. Resources are available for you at this link: Resources to Talk to Students about Diversity, Equity and Inclusion.
At the May 26th meeting of the Board of School Directors (May 26, 2020 Meeting of the Board of School Directors) our District equity plan was introduced by Equity Officer, Dr. Kristopher Brown. That plan highlighted the District’s commitment to Culturally Responsive Instructional Practices and professional development for our entire staff. Since 2019, Abington School District has been working with Dr. Crystal Lucky (Villanova University) and Dr. Ronald Whitaker (Cabrini University) to provide training to our staff on these topics. We are also planning upcoming professional development to better prepare our staff to navigate racially charged situations using researched-based strategies. This work will continue to help our school community grow and honor our value that a secure and safe environment and peaceful conflict resolution are essential to learning and society.
As we prepare for the 2020-2021 school year, we have planned to continue professional development opportunities for our staff that provide a framework of understanding and responsiveness to the impact of trauma, inequity, and intolerance that emphasizes physical, psychological, and emotional safety for all members of our community, especially those who are marginalized.
Trauma takes many forms, including the effects of tragic events like the death of Mr. Floyd and the country’s response. It is important to understand that there are many ways to process trauma and grief. While this is an emotionally charged time, our true character is revealed in moments of adversity and when we are able to have difficult conversations in order to be able to move forward together.
Together we can provide opportunities for our children to be advocates and effect change. We need to foster environments where all members of our community feel welcome, valued, and accepted.
Regards,
Jeffrey S. Fecher, Ed.D.
Superintendent of Schools