Statement on a Peaceful and Inclusive Country

January 11, 2021

Dear SVSU Community,

As we try to make sense of the events that took place on Wednesday, January 6, we continue to move through another crisis in our country. Following the horrific images that were strewn across our television screens, we must remember that the events that took place do not represent the values we have in our community or our country.

We strive to be a peaceful nation. The call to violence must be loudly and actively denounced. The use of violence perpetuates fear. Please let us stand firm in our commitment to our shared values and our vision of a peaceful and inclusive nation.

We know that children absorb all of what is going on around them, feeling many of the stressors that we may be feeling. We have gathered some resources below to help support conversations you may be having with your children. Now more than ever, we need to remember kindness in our conversations with ourselves, our children, and our community.

Resources for families:

Guidelines for Talking to Kids

How to Talk to Kids about Violence, Crime, and War

Talking to Children About Stressful Events

Dealing with the Aftermath of Tragedy

Tips for Parents on Media Coverage

Tips for Parents Talking About Media Coverage During Traumatic Events

“There is more good than bad in this world. More light than darkness and we can make more light--together.” (Peter H. Reynolds)

In solidarity,

James R. Culkeen, Superintendent, SVSU

Laura Boudreau, Assistant Superintendent, SVSU

Frank Barnes, Director of Educational Technology, SVSU