Newsroom

YCSD Statement Following Texas Tragedy

Yesterday afternoon, a heartbreaking tragedy took place at Robb Elementary School in Uvalde, Texas. Our deepest sympathies go out to every member of that community.

When violence affects a school, we experience a range of emotions such as shock, fear, anger, and grief. It is also natural to wonder about the measures in place at your own child’s or loved one’s school, a place where children should feel completely safe.

Please be assured the safety of our students and staff is our top priority. YCSD has a comprehensive crisis plan in place to prepare for all types of emergencies. The plan is reviewed and updated annually with support from the York-Poquoson Sheriff’s Office (YPSO) and is used daily to guide the safe operations of our schools. As part of each school’s crisis plan, lockdown and intruder drills are held regularly in conjunction with emergency responders. Schools also have safety procedures for visitors, such as locked entry doors and procedures for directing visitors to the main office for ID checks.

With the widespread media coverage of yesterday’s events, children may look to parents and educators for understanding, reassurance and guidance. Division administrators and school counselors are available to help students and staff cope with news such as this. In addition, we are sharing some tips provided by the National Association of School Psychologists with this letter.

We all have a role in sustaining a safe learning environment. If you or your child see something out of the ordinary or concerning, there are multiple ways this information can and should be shared: speak with a trusted adult, call the YCSD Hotline (757-890-5000), use the YCSD App or yorkcountyschools.org/ReportIt link.

Thank you for being our partners in maintaining safe and healthy schools. Please join us in keeping the students, staff and families of the Uvalde Consolidated Independent School District in our thoughts at this time.

Sincerely,

Victor D. Shandor, Ed.D.
Division Superintendent
York County School Division