PALO ALTO UNIFIED SCHOOL DISTRICT

Message sent - 5/5/2009

Message from Superintendent Skelly

Dear Parents/Guardians,

Perhaps you have heard that a student at Gunn High School was killed on the train tracks this morning. Our sympathy is extended to the student's family, his friends, classmates and staff at Gunn. I spent the day at Gunn and the entire staff is working diligently to support students and each other in the aftermath of this tragedy.

As parents and guardians, we are naturally deeply affected by this type of event. It reminds us how important it is for us, collectively, to redouble our efforts to look out for our young people as they navigate their way into adulthood.

District psychologists and counselors are available for students, staff and parents who need to discuss issues surrounding grief and loss. Please contact your school site principal, psychologist or guidance office if you need assistance. At the District Office, questions and concerns may be directed to Carol Zepecki at 650/329-3717.

Gunn principal Noreen Likins wrote the following message that was shared with students today. I hope you will emphasize this message with your child.

"It is very, very important that we look out for each other. If you have problems or are worried about a friend, if you know of other students who are dealing with difficult issues, please let a parent, teacher or counselor know. No problem is so big that a solution cannot be found if people ask for help and support.

Please look after and take care of each other. Each of you is precious to us."

If needed, the following resources are available in our community:

Adolescent Counseling Services 650/424-0852

Center for Living with Dying 408/243-0222

Kara-Grief Support for Children and Adults 650/321-5272

Teen Clinic (Lucile Packard Children's Hospital) 650/694-0600

Teen Line/Crisis Intervention/Counseling 800/852-8336

24/7 Line for Youth 888/247-7717