Today marks the anniversary of the terrorist attack on Israel that occurred on October 7, 2023. As the conflict in the Middle East continues and expands, it is important for students, families, and staff across Limestone to come together as a community to reflect and support one another. We remember the devastating attacks, the hostages taken, and the escalating conflict that has resulted in many Palestinian and Israeli lives lost over the past year.
Today there will be, and in recent days there has been, considerable media attention in conventional media, and social media, focusing on the current, larger conflict, and the one-year anniversary.
We understand that this may be a difficult time for many students and families. It is important to acknowledge our feelings and support one another during this time. Our school board is committed to providing a safe and supportive environment for all students, families, and staff. The diversity of our students and staff is, and always will be, a source of strength within our school communities.
School Mental Health Ontario (SMHO) offers a range of supports for students, families, and educators. The resources provided by SMHO may help you support your student at this time:
- Listen to understand, not necessarily respond.
- If your student is not focused on the conflict, do not dwell on it. Try to avoid having detailed adult conversations regarding the conflict in front of younger children. However, be available to answer questions to the best of your ability. Young children may not be able to express themselves verbally. Pay attention to changes in their behaviour or social interactions.
- For some, limiting exposure to media coverage may be important. Images of a disaster or crisis can become overwhelming, especially if watched repetitively. Young children may not be able to distinguish between images on television and their personal reality. Older children may choose to watch the news—be available to discuss what they see and to help put it into perspective.
- Be aware of your own needs. Do not ignore your own feelings of anxiety and concern or anger. Talking to friends, family members, and mental health counsellors can help. Let them know you are concerned. You will be better able to support them if you can express your own emotions in a productive manner.
The Canadian Paediatric Society has also posted tips for parents/caregivers to help support children and youth who may be experiencing feelings of anxiety, sadness, distress, isolation, or fear as a result of the Middle East conflict and associated social media images and videos circulating.
Limestone schools and communities will continue to be environments where differences are recognized and accepted, and places where listening, understanding, and mutual respect will guide our interactions. We are committed to:
- Creating a safe space: Ensuring our classrooms are a safe and respectful environment.
- Being empathetic: Acknowledging the emotions and experiences of students.
- Offering support: Being aware of the signs that students may need additional support and knowing how to connect them with the appropriate resources.
Let us honour the memory of those impacted by this conflict, and those who continue to be impacted, by fostering a sense of unity and compassion within our community. Together, we can navigate these challenging times with empathy and resilience. It is also important to share hope in a time when society can feel increasingly divided.
Sincerely,
Krishna Burra
Director of Education