Miami-Dade Superintendent of Schools Alberto M. Carvalho is helping the schools in Newtown cope with the difficult times ahead.
Carvalho has contacted the Newtown Public Schools Superintendent Janet Robinson and offered the support of Miami-Dade County Public Schools’ District Crisis Management Team, a press release from the district said.
That team includes highly-trained school psychologists, counselors and social workers.
The team is trained to provide on-site support and training in dealing with trauma in schools right after a disaster as well as creating ongoing support groups.
“It was with great sadness and shock that I received the news of Friday's tragedy at Sandy Hook Elementary School,” Carvalho wrote to Superintendent Robinson. “Educators here in South Florida and across the world know that this terrible incident will have far-reaching impact on your community for many years to come. Our prayers will be with you and your community now and in the months ahead.”
Carvalho has also directed personnel to provide comprehensive support to students and staff in Miami-Dade County Public Schools. The Crisis Management Team has prepared resources to aid teachers in easing the pain in students.
A brief will be sent to all schools informing staff about the available resources they’ll have to help students cope with school violence and national tragedies, the district said.
Flags will be at half-mast at all schools in Miami-Dade County on Monday. Students will also take a moment of silence in remembrance of the lives lost on Friday.