School Memo S.A.F.E. - March 30

March 30, 2023

Dear Lexington Families, 

ASL - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fl0AMKB9rlk

Lexington Community is deeply saddened by the recent tragedy in Nashville, Tennessee at the Covenant School. School faculty and staff play an important role in helping students recover from traumatic events. While this event was hundreds of miles away from our community, the media coverage brought it into our homes and lives. As educators, we can relate to the horror of this event as we try to place ourselves in the shoes of the staff who so valiantly sacrificed their lives to save children. 

For our Middle School and High School students, the Counseling Department will make a video to address this tragedy. Students will be encouraged to meet with a trusted staff person if they need further assistance. This includes whether students need to seek clarification and/or receive emotional support. School Counselors will be available upon request. 

Click on the following link to watch a video about School Violence. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8YZp8sA6o9M Families, faculty and staff, and community partners can use this video to help respond to school violence. Use the reflection questions in the video to promote dialogue and self-reflection. The video also provides strategies for young people on how to look for helpers (trusted adults). There is a link below for additional resource that may be helpful to you in processing this kind of news with your children. 

As always, our top priority is the safety and well-being of each of our students—your children. We are vigilant and proactive with school safety and security at Lexington. We have clear plans and procedures to deal with emergency situations. It is important for you to know help is available. If you are concerned about your child or feel they need additional support, and you would like to speak with a school counselor, please contact me at caponte-salcedo@lexnyc.org  or 917.832.1681 (VP or Voice). 

 

In deep sympathy, 

Carlos Aponte-Salcedo, Jr.

Director, Student and Family Engagement (SAFE)