Support for our students, families and staff

We know many of our Mason Public Schools families and staff have a deep connection to MSU as well as connections to local first responders who were on the scene to protect and assist as events unfolded.

When students return to school tomorrow, our staff will be prepared to support them. The school day will begin with our teachers or building principal reading one of the following statements to students:
 

• Pre-K and Kindergarten: Most of you are aware that there was a tragic event at Michigan State University on Monday night. It is important for you to know that everyone at MSU is now safe. The adults in this building work hard to keep you safe. I am here for you to talk to if you feel afraid or if you have questions.
   
• Elementary (Grades 1-5): Most of you are aware that there was a tragic event at Michigan State University on Monday night. It is important for you to know that everyone at MSU is now safe. The adults in this building work hard to keep you safe. We have many safety measures in place like door locks, cameras, safety drills, and staff training. I am here for you to talk to if you feel afraid or if you have questions. 
   
• Middle School (Grades 6-8): Most of you are aware that there was a tragic event at Michigan State University on Monday night. Eight people were victims of a shooting. Five were critically injured, and three have died. While we all try to make sense of this incident, it is important for you to know that everyone at MSU is now safe. The adults in this building have taken many steps to keep you safe. We have safety measures in place including door locks, cameras, safety drills, security personnel, and staff training. You can do your part by taking drills seriously, reporting suspicious activity, and keeping exterior doors closed at all times.  If you want to talk to someone because you feel afraid, you have anxiety, or you just have questions, there are trusted adults ready to assist you.
   
• High School (Grades 9-12): Most of you are aware that there was a tragic event at Michigan State University on Monday night. Eight people were victims of a shooting. Five were critically injured, and three have died. While we all try to make sense of this incident, it is important for you to know that everyone at MSU is now safe. Staff in this building and district have taken many steps to keep you safe. We have safety measures in place including door locks, cameras, safety drills, security personnel, and staff training. You can do your part by taking drills seriously, reporting suspicious activity both in the building and online, and keeping exterior doors closed at all times. If you need to talk to someone, there are trusted adults ready to assist you. 

After reading the statement, teachers will help students process the information. Our teachers will be referencing an article entitled Talking to Children About Violence: Tips for Parents and Teachers to guide developmentally appropriate conversations. We encourage parents to read the article and utilize similar strategies to support their children at home. 

As families navigate the days ahead, administrators, teachers, counselors, social workers and mental health staff are available to support students and staff and provide resources to families. 

Please encourage your children to talk to you, their teachers, their administrators, and their counselors, and please help us take care of one another. Again, my thoughts are with those impacted by last night's tragic events. Take care.

Sincerely, 

Dr. Gary Kinzer
Mason Public Schools Superintendent