Decatur Schools To Have Counselors On Hand

Decatur Schools Superintendent Phyllis Edwards said counselors will be assigned to city schools for students upset because of the school killings in Newtown, CT.

The statement issued Sunday said,

I have been in close contact with our principals and those in the role of providing support services throughout this weekend. Heidi Whatley, Director of Special Education and Pupil Services, has organized the counselors, social worker and other professionals who form our crisis support team. They will be available at school sites on Monday to assist students, teachers and administrators. 

 Meanwhile, principals and I will meet together to review several safety topics this Monday, and adjust any plans as needed. We will also ask that you help us by following the procedures and ensuring that others do as well. In times like these, it is important that we follow our normal routines as this will convey as sense of calm and security to the children.

The message from Edwards also suggests places parents can find information to use in talking to children about the killings.

Decatur schools will close for the winter holiday at the end of classes on Thursday, Dec. 20. They will return to classes on Thursday, Jan. 3.