Prepare a Parent Letter/Email to send home with students, or send all families an e-mail, explaining the loss and telling them how the school is responding. Attach information about Supporting Your Students after Crisis/Tragedy to the back of the letter. Provide the letter in other native languages as appropriate.
Primary Considerations
Always use your school or district letterhead for letters.
Always use a complete date on the letter (month, day, and year).
Begin with a statement of regret.
Tell the basic, verified facts about the crisis.
Give information about what the school has done and will do to support its students.
Provide suggestions about how they can best support their children (see below)
Other Considerations
Give information about the funeral or memorial service if known, and let parents know whether an excused absence or parent permission is needed for attending the funeral.
Tell parents how they can receive updated information.
If a community meeting is scheduled, provide the time, date, place, and planned agenda. These meetings are very helpful if you are dealing with trauma. Invite local spiritual leaders or cultural brokers if appropriate (consult with your Psych Services Admin).
Provide information about any fundraiser or other organized effort to help the family.