Message from the Superintendent on School Safety, May 24, 2022

May 24th, 2022

The following statement was issued by HCPSS Superintendent Michael Martirano on May 24, 2022:

My heart is heavy as I process the news of another senseless act of school violence and loss of life at Robb Elementary School in the Uvalde Consolidated Independent School District in Texas. I hurt for the families and communities impacted. I know this takes a toll on the children and adults in our Howard County community, just as it impacts me immensely. Many of us are feeling sadness, frustration and concern as we consider the impact of this situation on our young people. I wanted to send this note to you tonight to provide you assurance that our staff is prepared to help students as they process this event, as well as to highlight the safety and security strategies we have in place.

Please know that the student services team at every school is prepared to assist any students and staff members affected by this tragedy. We will encourage students, who need an outlet, to talk about these events with trusted adults in their building. Parents/guardians can access resources available online about how to talk to children about school violence if they are in need.

In collaboration with the Howard County Police Department, we take a proactive approach to ensuring that each school is as safe and secure as it can be. Developing effective school emergency plans, training staff, maintaining security cameras located throughout every school, and locking doors and windows are some of the many strategies we implement to enhance safety in every one of our schools and offices.

It is important for all parents and guardians to be subscribed to receive emails and texts from their child’s school because that is our primary form of communication during an emergency. Information is available online, or for assistance contact your child’s school.

As always, our steadfast commitment remains on the well-being of our students and staff, and I thank our entire community for your continued support during these difficult times.