The following message was emailed to staff on Tuesday, May 24. It is reposted below. In addition, please be aware that the MCPS Employee Assistance Program partner, Kepro, is available at 866-496-9588, 24 hours a day, seven days a week, 365 days a year.
Dear MCPS Employees:
On behalf of the Montgomery County Board of Education and Montgomery County Public Schools, we mourn the senseless and tragic loss of life at Robb Elementary School in Uvalde, Texas.
Violence in any form is intolerable. Violence against children and those who are called to teach, serve and protect them, in the place they are meant to be the most safe, is unbearable. Tonight, we hold our children extra close as we reaffirm our unwavering commitment to ending senseless gun violence and to providing for the safety, security and well-being of our entire school community.
Together, we are committed to the safety and well-being of all students and staff. Each of us has a role to play in ending the violence that has again stolen our peace, and shortened young and innocent lives too soon.
The Employee Assistance Program (EAP) is available to any employee wishing to reach out to process these tragic events. They may be reached at the following contact information:
240-314-1040
Available 8:30 a.m.-5 p.m. year-round
45 West Gude Dr.
Suite 1300
Rockville, MD 20850
In addition, here are articles that may be useful in helping to process this tragic event with children:
American Psychological Association: How to help in an emotional crisis
American Psychological Association: Helping your child manage distress in the aftermath of a shooting
