School District 71 has released a statement following Tuesday’s mass shooting in northern British Columbia.
In a letter to the community, Comox Valley Schools said classrooms across the district will take time to support students in age-appropriate ways.
The statement comes in the wake of the mass shooting in Tumbler Ridge, where multiple people were killed and others wounded at a secondary school.
Superintendent Dr. Jeremy Morrow said counsellors and staff will be available to provide additional support to students who may need it.
“Educators are reminding students that it is normal for people to respond differently to difficult news and encouraging them to speak with a trusted adult if they have questions or feelings they would like to share, consistent with the guidance being used in classrooms.”
Over the coming days and weeks, families are encouraged to work with schools to be responsive to changes in their child’s behaviour that may indicate a need for additional supports.
The district said parents should check in with their children, listen to their questions and reassure them that school is a safe place where caring adults are present to support them each day.
Resources and supports are available to the community and can be found here.
