I would like to take this opportunity to thank the students and staff of PSHS for their efforts today. It was a difficult and emotional day for all and as usual the Plymouth South community made me very proud to be their principal. Many students have come forward with ideas to help the community of Newtown CT and we are hopeful to have some of these ideas organized and channeled in the appropriate direction over the next few days.
Unfortunately, I am also calling tonight to shed some
light on a rumor that circulated throughout the building at the end of the
school day. At the beginning of the day,
I encouraged our students to always come forward and share any concern they
have regarding student safety. Today,
some rumors began to circulate about a student talking about this Friday and
particular threats. Administrators and
School Resource Officer Dennis Reimer immediately conducted a thorough and
detailed investigation and all details pointed toward conversations about this
Friday and the end of the Mayan calendar and the highly publicized “end of the
world.”
As principal, I am confident that the individuals who
began these conversations are clear on our expectations moving forward and this
was never generated as a threat in any way, shape, or form. The Plymouth Police and the school department
have an outstanding relationship and we work together on any issues that arise
of this nature. Safety is and always
been our number one priority.
What the Newtown community is going through is
incomprehensible to me. As shared in the
Superintendent’s letter that was sent home today with your children, you may or
may not know that each and every day, teachers, counselors, nurses, secretaries,
custodians, and administrators all work very hard on behalf on the safety of
your children. We meet regularly with
the police department, fire department, and many other organizations to
continually re-evaluate our emergency plans.
In the words of President
Obama, “Newtown you have inspired us – in the face of indescribable violence
and evil….This job of keeping our children safe is something we cannot do alone – we need help..”
We
have thorough lockdown practices, a diligent and caring staff, and a great
student body! Tell us anything and we
will help – nothing is ever too minor.
Today
the student body listened to our words and communicated. Thank you again to all and we look forward to
seeing everyone tomorrow at PSHS.
