Dear Members,
In light of the recent tragic events in Lewiston, it is essential that we come together not only to support our students but also to care for one another. Our role as educators extends beyond the classroom, and our compassion and guidance are needed now more than ever.
There are no words that can convey the depth of grief and horror that we feel. Our hearts go out to the families and friends who have lost loved ones and to those who have been injured in this senseless act. We all share in this devastating loss. We must commit to doing all we can to make this something that won’t happen again. And we will.
As you work through your emotions, here is a set of guidelines to help provide the necessary support and comfort to our students, tailored to their developmental needs:
- Be Available and Patient: Take the time to listen and be available for your students. Let their questions be your guide in determining how much information to provide. Understand that children and youth may not always express their feelings verbally. Look for subtle cues, such as their presence while you engage in daily tasks.
- Developmentally Appropriate Explanations: Recognize the varying needs of different age groups. For early elementary school children, offer brief, simple information balanced with reassurances of their safety. Mention concrete safety measures like locked doors, playground monitoring, and emergency drills.
- Engage in Honest Discussions: Upper elementary and early middle school students may be more vocal in seeking information. Assist them in distinguishing between reality and fantasy and discuss the efforts of school and community leaders in providing safety.
- Empower High School Students: High school students often have strong opinions and ideas about safety and violence. Emphasize their role in maintaining safe schools by following guidelines, reporting concerns, and accessing emotional support.
- Review Safety Procedures: Ensure that students are aware of school and home safety procedures. Help them identify trusted adults they can turn to if they feel threatened.
- Observe Emotional States: Watch for changes in behavior, appetite, and sleep patterns as signs of anxiety or discomfort. Seek professional help promptly for children at risk of severe reactions.
- Limit Media Exposure: Encourage healthy media consumption. Monitor what students view online and guide them away from developmentally inappropriate content. Be mindful of conversations and comments that may be misunderstood by children.
- Maintain Routine: Promote a sense of security by adhering to a regular schedule. Encourage adequate sleep, balanced meals, and physical activity. Support students in their schoolwork and extracurricular activities without overwhelming them.
Remember, these guidelines apply to us as educators as well. To best care for our students, we must first care for ourselves. Let us support one another during these challenging times, sharing the burden and finding strength in our unity as educators.
Additionally, you have access to more support through MEABT to speak with health professionals to support you through this time. Please, do not hesitate to reach out to us for any support needed, be it in the classroom, the halls, or in your personal lives.
Thank you for your dedication to our students and to each other.
FMI: MEABT licensed clinicians
Stay Safe,
Grace Leavitt, President
Maine Education Association
