While our thoughts and prayers remain with those impacted by the horrific tragedy in Newtown, Connecticut, last Friday, the law enforcement community is obligated to evaluate such events and continuously adjust and improve our service to the community. Specific to our local schools, both public and private, the Arcadia Police Department has collaborated with various school officials and the Arcadia Unified School District since this tragedy occurred last week. The goal of this collaboration is to provide an appropriate response and comfort to our community, our students, their families, and school staff.
Throughout this week leading to the holiday break, our officers will be not only a visible presence around our schools, but may be physically walking about many of the campuses. There is no set schedule for this presence. Our visits and checks will be random and carried out at various locations and times throughout the City.
The Police Management Team, along with other stake holders, will continue this discussion and collaboration beyond this week, planning for what future response and presence is most appropriate for our community. Safety at our schools remains a priority for the Arcadia Police Department.
For those children and parents trying to cope with this tragedy, there are resources available for you. The National Association of School Psychologists offers tips for parents, teachers, and caregivers on how to talk with your children, and how to cope with such a crisis. Visit the NASP website for these resources at http://www.nasponline.org/resources/crisis_safety/terror_general.aspx or at http://www.nasponline.org/.
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