Message from the Superintendent: Our Hearts Are with the Families in Uvalde, Texas
25 May 2022
Dear Parent(s)/Guardian(s):
The Old Tappan School District shares in the grief of those families so tragically affected by yesterday’s dreadful event at Robb Elementary School in Uvalde, Texas. Our hearts are extended to the entire school community and to all the families in Uvalde, who have been faced with the most horrific occurrence imaginable – the loss of life.
As a District, the safety of our students and staff is our top priority. The administrative team regularly meets with the Old Tappan Police Department to review our security and emergency procedures and to ensure that we are doing everything possible to make our schools safe places to learn. We continue to practice and evaluate our safety protocols in collaboration with first responders on a consistent basis. Each month, we conduct drills and various types of evacuations, as required by law. Additionally, on a daily basis, the Old Tappan Police are present and visible in our school buildings, as they conduct walk-throughs and on-site assessments.
There is no doubt that over the coming days, there will be extensive media coverage of this horrifying incident in Uvalde, Texas. As such, I am sure that some families will be faced with questions from their children. To assist you, please feel free to contact either school’s counselor, Ms. Dockendorf (TBD) [email protected] or Ms. Adamo Richardson (CDW) at [email protected]. The school psychologists and social worker are available for your support as well, Ms. Joroff (School Psychologist) at [email protected], Dr. Lew (Psychologist) at [email protected], and Dr. Polizotto (Social Worker) at [email protected]. Of course, Ms. Santa, Ms. Boyce, and I are always available to speak with you, to share resources with you, and to meet with your child(ren).
On behalf of the Board of Education and the faculty and staff, we thank you for your continued trust in us and for your partnership with our schools.
Respectfully,
Danielle M. Da Giau, Ed.D.
Superintendent of Schools
Old Tappan Public School District