Response, Reminder, and Resources

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To Our Framingham Community,

Our hearts break for Nex Benedict, an Indigenous, non-binary, student in Oklahoma, as well as their friends, family, and loved ones. Regrettably, this adds to a far too long list of increasing incidents in schools of violence and harm inflicted against students especially in LGBTQIA+ communities, communities of color, and in our faith communities.

Incidents of bias, hate, and acts of violence are impactful to all of us. We are strong when we can, together, denounce these acts and lean on one another during times of tragedy and loss.

This tragedy reminds us of the need to reaffirm our values of community, inclusivity, and safety for all students, families, and staff. We are committed to ensuring that Framingham Public Schools is a place where students, staff, and families from all backgrounds and identities can feel welcome and safe.

Creating an inclusive, accepting, and safe environment extends beyond the walls of our schools, and requires the active participation of every member of our community, especially parents and caregivers. We urge you to engage in open and thoughtful conversations with your children about the importance of respect, empathy, and being an upstander. It is critical that our students also understand the importance of seeking adult support when they witness or become aware of any mistreatment, targeting, or bullying among their peers, or that they may experience themselves.

We ask for your support in reinforcing these values at home, stressing the impact that our words and actions can have on others. Together, we can ensure our schools remain places where our students can learn, grow, and thrive without fear. We must come together to support each other and be committed to ensuring our community is a place where every individual is valued and respected.

We have included some resources to support you in engaging in conversations with children, and for emotional support, should you or your children be experiencing overwhelming emotions and grief following this most recent tragedy.

Our thoughts are with all that are affected.

Sincerely,

Framingham Public Schools

• FPS Employee Assistance Program: (844) 263-1982

• Supporting Marginalized Students in Stressful Times- Tips for Educators

• A guide on identifying and responding to bullying for teachers (American Psychological Association)

All members of the school community will treat each other in a civil manner and with respect for differences. Framingham Public Schools are committed to providing all students with a safe learning environment that is free from bullying and cyberbullying. This commitment is an integral part of our comprehensive efforts to promote learning, and to prevent and eliminate all forms of bullying and other harmful and disruptive behavior that can impede the learning process. For more information on the FPS Bullying Intervention and Prevention Plan, please visit the FPS Website: https://www.framingham.k12.ma.us/Page/4884

Equity Reporting Form (English)

Formulário de Denúncia sobre a Igualdade das Escolas Públicas de Framingham (Português)

Formulario de Comunicación de las Escuelas Públicas de Framingham (Español)