21 April, 2013
Dear Hopkinton Families:
It will be good to be back in school tomorrow. Our thoughts and prayers go out to everyone who was touched by the latest senseless act of violence. I was at the starting line on Patriot’s Day as a bystander excited by the energy and enthusiasm of the runners about to run the course. Hopkinton as the start line for the Marathon remains tied to acts in Boston later in the day. Many of our fellow community members and family members were at the finish line. First, I want to reassure you that through our work with the Hopkinton Police we were assured that our schools were safe before we allowed students and staff back in the school and on the playing fields. Second, our administrators, teachers, and staff will work hard tomorrow to create a normal school day in spite of the events of the past week.
I will be meeting with the administrative team prior to the start of the school day. It is important to remind you that Hopkinton has Crisis Response Teams in each building and there is a District Safety Committee which includes representation from Police, Fire and other Town Departments. These teams will be working to ensure students and staff have the support they might need.
If you have questions or concerns about your child please reach out to the school. Administrators, counselors, and teachers are prepared to help. Below is a list of websites that may help you talk with your child.
Sincerely,
Steven Hiersche, Ed.D
Superintendent
Readiness and Emergency Management for Schools Technical Assistance Center links
US Department of Education links:
Safe and Supportive Schools
Safe Supportive Learning – Emergency Readiness and Management
