Sept. 5, 2024
Statement on Tragedy in Winder, Georgia
Dear DPS Community,
It saddens me to share yet another announcement of a tragedy at a school. As you may be aware, a school shooting took place yesterday at Apalachee High School in Winder, Georgia. We are sending our deepest sympathies to those impacted by this tragedy.
We encourage you to talk with your child about what they are thinking and feeling in response to this incident. Please monitor the following signs, which may indicate that your child is having difficulty in the wake of this news, and know that with time, they should decrease. Signs of stress include:
Marked changes in usual ways of behaving, including decline in school productivity or mood changes.
Changes in sleeping or eating problems.
Difficulty making decisions or following through with plans, easily distracted.
Withdrawing behaviors.
Physical symptoms such as loss of appetite, stomach pain, headaches.
Acting out behavior, including aggression.
Tearfulness.
The following resources may be accessed by families and staff to support in times of crisis and/or grief:
Resources and support for students, families and staff from the DPS Mental Health team.
Safe2Tell Colorado: An anonymous way to report any concern impacting students (phone, app, online reporting options.) Reports can be submitted by calling 1-877-542-SAFE (7233), through their website, through the mobile app or by texting S2TCO to 738477.
School-based Health Centers: There are 19 School-based Health Centers located in our schools around the city. If there is not a location at your child's school, you may use the one located closest to you.
Care Solace: Offers behavioral health care coordination services for students, family members and staff and their family members.
Colorado Crisis and Support Line: A resource for mental health, substance use, or emotional crisis help – information and referrals. Call 844-493-8255 or Text TALK to 38255.
I Matter Colorado: Directs students to an online survey for their needs and connects them to a therapist.
988 Lifeline: A resource that aids in mental health struggles, emotional distress and more. Call or text 988, or chat with a counselor.
For additional support or assistance in accessing resources, please reach out to your school psychologist, school counselor or school social worker. Additional assistance may be accessed by contacting the Family and Community Helpline at 720-423-3054 or FACEHelpline@dpsk12.org.
Sincerely,
Dr. Alex Marrero
Superintendent