January 5, 2024
Click to read letter and resources in Spanish
Kahok Families,
The tragedy that occurred in Perry, Iowa, is devastating and there are no words to accurately express our sympathy for the loss of life and those injured, as well as their families and the community. Violence of this nature is a harsh reminder that safety must remain our number one priority and our district must be vigilant.
The safety and welfare of our students and staff is a top priority in our school district. Each year our safety protocols are reviewed and adapted, and new measures added. Changes and adjustments are the result of open lines of communication between law enforcement, first responders and district officials. These channels of communication allow for proper training, incident readiness and procedure changes to occur. Efforts to provide a safe learning environment are constantly evolving.
As we begin 2024, I want to remind families this is a difficult time of year as we unwind from the holidays, endure cold temperatures and look forward to spring. If you have a concern, observe a disturbing social media post or worry about an individual’s mental health, do not hesitate to communicate with school principals, staff or law enforcement. The goal is to always be proactive in helping others, and address potential risks before they arise. Our ability to look out for each other and avert a potential event is only as good as the information we get from families, students and community members. Your active involvement is a vital part of the district’s efforts to not only provide a safe environment for our schools, but to come to the aid of others.
We encourage you to call 911 if there is an imminent danger; and share non-emergency information with our principals, counselors, or local police by contacting the dispatch numbers for each community. (See attachment.)
I have also included resources to help you and your family discuss and process what occurred this past week.
Our Kahok community has always come together to stand with each other and support the needs of our school district. At this time, we must again rely on that strength to do our best for our community and our students.
Sincerely,
Mark B. Skertich Ed.D.
Superintendent
Resources for Families and the Community
Click for printable PDF in English and Spanish
Non-Emergency Contact Information:
Collinsville Police: (618) 344-2131
Maryville Police: (618) 344-8899
Fairmont City Police: (618) 274-4504
Caseyville Police: (618) 344-2151
Madison County Sheriff’s Department: (618) 692-6087
St. Clair County Sheriff’s Department: (618) 277-3505
Emotional Wellbeing & Talking to Children About Tragedy:
- American Academy of Pediatrics: “Talking to Children about Tragedies and other News Events” (Click HERE for Spanish)
- National Institute of Mental Health: “Helping Children and Adolescents Cope with Violence and Disasters: What Parents Can Do” (Click HERE for Spanish)
- National Association of School Psychologists: “Talking to Children About Violence: Tips for Parents and Teachers” (English & Spanish printables)
- Child Development Institute: “How To Talk To Kids About Violence” (PDF/English)
- Mental Health America: “Talking To Kids About Fear And Violence” (PDF/English)
CUSD 10 Virtual Calming Room
Our social work and counseling staff maintain a website for students, staff and families to access resources, links and advice for managing emotions and feelings: Virtual Calming Room