We were saddened this morning to learn that the victim of the tragic homicide in Whitchurch-Stouffville last week was a student at Maple H.S. Our thoughts are with the student’s family and friends, and with all of those who are affected by this loss and act of violence. A tragedy like this deeply affects our communities.
Our focus in the coming days and weeks will be on providing support to our students and staff members. We know that a serious incident like this may affect many of our students across the region. We have deployed our Board’s mental health professionals today to provide support to each of our 33 secondary schools to support any student that may require it.
Understandably, some parents may be asking about safety in our schools and school events. I want to reassure you that our schools are safe spaces for children. We have caring and dedicated staff at all schools whose first priority is student safety. They provide constant supervision and guidance to students while in our schools and at school-sanctioned events. As I communicated on Friday, while after-prom parties are not school-sanctioned events, we know that end-of-year festivities are occurring and that students and their families are making decisions in their best interest. It’s important for families to have open conversations about these events and supports that are available.
There are resources available on our website to support families in speaking with children, and I encourage you to connect as a family and outreach to your school or community as you need during this difficult time. If you have any concerns about your child’s well-being, please contact the school so that we can work together to provide them with appropriate care.
As a sign of respect for the victim of this tragedy, flags are being lowered at Maple H.S. and York Region District School Board offices.
Sincerely,
Louise Sirisko
Director of Education