Our school community has experienced a deeply distressing incident. We know that many of you are still processing what happened and carrying a wide range of emotions including concern, sadness, and uncertainty. We want to begin by acknowledging the impact this has had on our students, staff and families, and by holding space for all who have been affected.
As we look ahead, we are prepared to welcome staff and students back into the building next week, pending approval from external experts who are guiding and supporting this process. This has been made possible by the support of our own staff, community partners, and the community at large.
The well-being of our students and staff remains our highest priority. We have been working closely with professionals to ensure the building is physically safe and that appropriate supports are in place. Mental health resources will continue to be available to both staff and students in the coming days. We will continue to respond with care, flexibility, and understanding as our community finds its footing again.
We encourage anyone who is struggling to reach out as support is available, and asking for help is always welcomed. It is important that our community understands that we stand with you. We stand with our students as they heal and make sense of what they have experienced. We stand with our staff, who care deeply for one another and for the young people they serve. We stand with our families, whose trust and partnership matter to us.
In moments like these, community is not defined by a building, but by the way we show up for one another, with empathy, patience, and respect. Thank you for continuing to do just that.
We will continue to communicate as needed and to support one another in the days ahead.
With care and gratitude,
Michael Bannerman
AMDSB Board Chair (on behalf of the Board of Trustees)
Patricia Smith
Vice-Chair
Graham Shantz
Director of Education (on behalf of the Senior Team)