Supporting Students and Staff After the Election

November 11th, 2016

Dear HCPSS Community,

We returned to school this week following an emotional and sometimes polarizing election. In the past several days, some students have posted hurtful and insensitive messages on social media, and these images have gone viral.

The Howard County Public School System (HCPSS) takes no stand on the election and will not interfere with free speech. However, we will enforce the Student Code of Conduct. This week, we took the following measures to reinforce our core values, and support our students and staff:

• All principals communicated a personal message to their students and staff to set a tone of respect, civility and tolerance going forward

• Many teachers have already made this a teachable moment by encouraging dialogue about our government’s checks and balances, and what it means to live in a diverse and inclusive society. HCPSS is committed to creating and maintaining positive educational experiences for all students.

• Staff was provided with guidance for reinforcing safe, supportive and positive school environments from the National Association of School School Psychologists.

We continue to encourage our students to engage openly in conversation about diverging views with civility, dignity and respect. Many schools have already planned opportunities for student dialogue beginning on Monday with administrators and students working together to facilitate these discussions.

I hope these conversations continue in your home. You may want to consult this resource from the American Academy of Pediatrics.

Together, we can ensure the goal of educating students in an inclusive school community, where every individual is valued. Thank you for your support.

Sincerely,

Renee A. Foose, Ed.D.
Superintendent