Dear Broward County Public Schools Families:
In the wake of two suicides that devastated the community this past week, parents and representatives from organizations throughout Broward County came together yesterday to discuss what we can do to help students cope with trauma and depression.
Parents, it is important for you to talk with your children and be able to recognize signs of personal crisis that could lead to suicide. During Spring break, I encourage you to take time to speak with your children every day. Dinner is a great time for family conversations.
To identify if someone is in crisis, ask the screening questions from The Columbia Protocol. The questions can be found online at www.cssrs.columbia.edu. Call 9-1-1 if the threat of a suicide is imminent.
During Spring break, the Broward County Resiliency Center, located at Pines Trail Park, 10561 Trails End in Parkland, has clinicians available from noon to 7 p.m. daily until April 1. For more details, call 954-684-4265.
Children can also visit the Coral Springs Museum of Art, 2855 Coral Springs Drive, where fun activities will be available in a supportive environment. Call
954-340-5000 to learn more.
For additional local resources, visit browardschools.com/CrisisSupport.
The District and our community partners will continue to provide support for students upon their return from Spring break. Parents, please reinforce to your children that there is hope, there is help and there is healing.
Sincerely,
Superintendent Robert W. Runcie
Broward County Public Schools