It is difficult to return from
vacation after such a tragic week and help our students find answers to the
many questions that we all have. As shared in Dr. Maestas letter to
parents, our students are growing up in very difficult times and we always want
to make sure that our school community is here to support. Our counselors
have many resources available so we encourage parents to call during any
national or personal crisis.
This morning I shared a moment of
silence with our students in memory of the victims. The script is
below. We will be in touch moving
forward regarding fundraising activities that we will be hosting in honor of
Boston Strong.
PSHS Moment of Silence:
It saddens me to address you this
morning regarding the tragedies that occurred last week in Boston. It has been a difficult year for us all with
local tragedies, the anniversary of the Columbine tragedy, as well as Sandy
Hook Elementary School devastation.
I know I speak for many in saying
that the events of the past week are some of the most disturbing of my
lifetime. I would be lying if I didn’t
tell you all that like many staff at Plymouth South, the finish line of the
Boston Marathon holds a very special place in my heart.
I am sure many of you have
connections and stories about friends and family members who are linked to the
tragedies of last week. In fact, a few
years ago one of our graduates wrestled against the young man who helped incite
this awful violence…a very scary thought….where did his life go wrong?
However, in spending my week reading
posts on social media outlets, listening to the radio and television
broadcasts, and speaking with family and friends, what has impressed me
throughout these dark days is how not only our city and state have come
together, but how the entire country has rallied around the city of Boston…it
was nothing short of amazing! To me,
this is the message we need to take away from the events of last week.
Today, please take a moment to:
· Remember the victims Sean Collier, Martin Richard, Krystle
Campbell, and Lu Lingzi– as well as the family and friends they have left
behind.
· Pray for the 177 injured people who are still
recovering.
· And applaud all of the first responders who ensured that the
criminals were apprehended in amazing form – for all the world to see…
As we move ahead with our day and
our lives, please make sure you remember that the majority of our world is good
and while we witnessed evil first hand last week – you are all the people who
can change our world and make sure that the safety of you and others is always
number one.
I urge you to remember the message
of eight year old Martin Richard that is posted on the sign as you entered
Plymouth South this morning…..”No More
Hurting People…Peace.”
In closing, I have been approached
by many students and staff about fundraising for the One Fund Boston as well as a Boston
Strong day – when these details are finalized we will make you all aware. Thank you all for being a wonderful school
community as evidenced by you always caring about others first….
At this time, I ask you all to take
a moment to remember that we are
Boston Strong.
Thank you for your time.
