June 2020 The Challenges Before Us

June 2, 2020

Dear KLSD Community,

Our country faces vast and glaring challenges. 

COVID-19 continues to threaten individual health and safety and create uncertainty about the future. The pandemic also shines a light on inequity, treating us differently depending on the color of our skin and our socioeconomic status. 

The killing of George Floyd, the confrontation in Central Park, and the protests erupting across the country make abundantly clear how far we must still travel towards justice for all.

As we educate tomorrow’s citizens, we hold on to the promise that education illuminates the path of progress. We are reminded of our individual and collective responsibility to call out the injustice and racism that we must work to overcome. 

Our students currently are distant from us and from one another. Nonetheless, they are in our hearts as they experience these crises. We remain committed to helping them grow as compassionate and thoughtful members of an inclusive community.  

I hope the resources below will be helpful at home. Know that our building leaders and our teachers are thinking about how to support all our students in these uniquely troubling times. If you have concern about your child, please don’t hesitate to reach out to our staff. 

Be safe and be well.

Sincerely,

Andrew Selesnick, Superintendent of Schools

Talking to Children About Racial Bias – HealthyChildren.org – American Academy of Pediatrics

Talking About Race – National Museum of African American History & Culture, Smithsonian

Racial Stress and Self-care: Parent Tip Tool – American Psychological Association