Sample Letter to Parents

Dear Parents,

 As you may or may not be aware, our school (or district) has recently experienced (specify event, whether death, fire, etc.) which has deeply affected us.  Let me briefly review the facts (give brief description of incident and known facts).

We have implemented our school's Emergency Management Response Plan in an effort to provide an appropriate response to the situation.  This plan is also designed to provide assistance to our students and their families when deemed necessary.  Students and staff will react in different ways to emergencies of this nature, so it will be important to have support available to assist both staff and students in need.  Counselors are available in the school setting to assist students as they express their feelings related to (the specific event).  We have included a reference sheet to help you recognize possible reactions you may observe in your child.  If you feel your child is in need of special assistance or is having a great deal of difficulty coping with (the loss, disaster, etc.), please do not hesitate to call.

While it is important to deal with grief, loss, anger and fear reactions, we believe it is essential to resume as normal a routine as possible regarding school activities.  The following modifications in our school's regular schedule will be in effect during (specify dates, times and places), and after that time all regular schedules and routines will resume.  (Specify needed information such as memorial services, possible changes in classroom locations, alterations school operating hours, etc.).

Thank you for your support of our school system as we work together to cope with (specify event).  Please observe your child closely over the next several days and weeks to watch for signs of distress which may indicate a need for additional support and guidance.  Please feel free to call if you have any concerns or questions regarding your child, or the steps being taken by the school to address this (loss, tragedy, etc.).

Sincerely,

(Principal Name)

(Phone)