Happy Friday, Lakewood Families!
It has been an emotional week as the news of the national election has swept over our community. This morning at our weekly community meeting, I felt the need to address our student body about our values of inclusivity and respect that are the building blocks of our community. I have heard only a few older students repeat things that adults may have said in person or on the television. All of these remarks from the students lacked understanding and true malice. Students were repeating things that they heard but not necessarily true. I stressed with the students that they ALL belong to Lakewood. All of the students are valued members of our community. Lakewood is an inclusive community that welcomes all persons from different language groups, religions, racial, and ethnic backgrounds. Overall, we love our students and appreciate the support of our families. We are here to teach and protect our students. Lakewood strives to be a kind, respectful, responsible, and SAFE environment for all students. I directed students to talk about their issues concerning the election and the hate speech that has been discussed on the television with you the parents instead of discussing it with their peers. The teachers and I plan to support and encourage calmness and a feeling of safety throughout their day. Again, all Lakewood students belong here!
Here are some resources that may help you talk with your child about how they are feeling and any of their anxieties.
Here’s the Kid President video on disagreement that you can view online with your child/family.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ghk-nDJB3Tk
Here are some other articles that may help:
http://parents-together.org/talking-kid-presidential-election/
http://www.today.com/parents/how-talk-your-kids-about-election-results-t104827
I hope this information helps as we continue through this tumultuous time.
M. Seals
Lakewood Elementary School PTO 