Dear Families,

I am sure that you were as dismayed as I was with the news last night of the terrible school shooting in Florida.  On behalf of our entire administrative team, I want to reassure you that your children’s safety is our top priority in the District.  As you may know, Mr. DeVito led the district in a thorough review of all of our safety protocols during the fall, and we have adjusted these protocols to ensure even a greater degree of safety for our students. Drills have been practiced at all of our buildings, and our staff debrief regularly about changes and adjustments. In addition, security vestibules have now been installed at both the High School, and East School. Our trained security guards are stationed at every school entrance, and check to make sure that all visitors are expected before they enter our buildings.  We continuously work with the security firm to implement best practices in order to keep our students and staff safe.  We also work in close collaboration with local law enforcement agencies, and follow their recommendations on best practices.

Our administrators and staff members were alert today to any students who may have been anxious or scared as a result of the news, and we were able to provide support when needed, with the assistance of our PPS staff. If any parents believe that their children may be suffering from anxiety over the Florida shooting, please reach out to school personnel tomorrow so that we can assist you in providing comfort and support. 

As always, feel free to reach out to myself or any of our school professionals if we can be of assistance. 

I held my children extra tight this morning, and I am sure you all did as well. Let’s continue to be a support for each other in Long Beach, and let’s keep the families of Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School in our thoughts and prayers. 

Dr. Jennifer Gallagher
Interim Superintendent