School Chief: 'Courage and Normalcy are Often the Best Responses to Loss and Adversity'

This message was sent out as a CodeEd alert to parents, staff and faculty in Naugatuck on Saturday night: 

This is School Superintendent John Tindall-Gibson with a message concerning the tragedy in Newtown and school security measures in Naugatuck.

Our hearts go out to all of those who lost loved ones in this senseless act of violence. Words cannot describe the sadness and loss that everyone feels.  This tragedy will continue to fill our thoughts and prayers for a very long time. On Monday in all Naugatuck schools there will be a moment of silence in respect for those who were lost and all who knew and loved them. All school flags are at half-mast.

Students should attend school as scheduled next week in Naugatuck. Courage and normalcy are often the best responses to loss and adversity. On Monday, school support staff, including psychologists, counselors, social workers, nurses, and other professionals will be watchful and available for any students who are struggling and need assistance.

I have been in discussions with the Mayor, the Police Chief, the School Board Chairman, and others concerning measures needed in Naugatuck following this tragic event. We want you to know that over the next few days we will assess current security protocols for the schools and make any adjustments that would ensure greater safety for students and staff. We will also cooperate fully with guidelines, training, and other assistance that we anticipate will be made available through state and federal offices.

Schools have always been the safest of places for children and we will do everything possible to ensure that they continue to be so.

Thank you and have a good evening.