Supporting Howard County Students Following Georgia School Shooting, Sept. 4, 2024

September 4th, 2024

The following message was shared with HCPSS families on Sept. 4, 2024.

Earlier today, a shooting at a Georgia high school resulted in several deaths and injuries. News of this tragedy is spreading quickly through national news organizations and on social media. Students who learn about this act of violence may experience strong feelings or reactions, and some may seek out support at school or home as they try to understand and process this tragedy.

Student Services staff members are available in all our schools during the school day to support students who need assistance. In addition, resources are available online for parents and caretakers to support conversations with children related to today’s traumatic events.

In the event of an emergency, it’s critical that parents and guardians receive HCPSS and school communications. Please be sure to update Family File/Emergency Information to ensure contact information, as well as emergency dismissal procedures are correct. Please note, parents/guardians are automatically enrolled for email notification; however, all users must opt in one time to receive text messages. To opt in or confirm that you are signed up to receive messages, text the word “yes” to 67587 from the mobile number listed in your Family File.