Dear Eatontown School Community Member:

Over the last 24 hours, the country has experienced some unprecedented and unsettling events that occurred at our nation’s Capitol. These events are difficult to witness and will generate feelings of worry, doubt, and confusion for many of us. These times may be particularly challenging for our students to process and to manage.

During moments such as these, educators play an important role in this process and in the lives of our students. Our schools provide students and staff with opportunities to process these events, offer reassurance, and set the stage for positive change to occur. Eatontown Public Schools realizes that recent current events coupled with the challenges of COVID-19 have left many in our school community feeling lost or unsupported. The district’s talented staff will work to assist students in this process. In addition, our school counselors are available to help as well.

Our overall guidance would be to listen first and speak second. Please do not assume you know how your child feels or what he or she already knows. Try to gauge their perspective and background information. From there, begin to think about ways to facilitate and guide the discussion in a genuine and age-appropriate manner.

Yesterday’s events raise important questions about our society and provide teachable moments for our students. Questions may include:

Why is the smooth transfer of power important in a democracy?
How does the election process work?
Why is it important for citizens to stay informed and participate in government?
What institutional biases exist in schools, government, and other aspects of society?
Why is character important?
Why are rules and laws important?

There are many other questions that you probably have and will raise as well. The list above is not meant to be exhaustive. In the end, please reassure your child that we care about him or her and he or she is safe.

Our district understands that these are challenging times for our community. If you have questions or need support, please contact your child’s principal or school counselor.

Please stay healthy and well.

Sincerely,

Scott T. McCue
Superintendent of Schools

Please click here to download a PDF of this letter.

Current Events in Our Country