A message of support during the crisis in Ukraine

Roma Hill, a teaching assistant at C.W. Baker High School, wants to send a message of support to the Ukrainian community in Baldwinsville.

“We stand with you,” she said.

Hill, whose parents are from Ukraine, made ribbon pins in blue and yellow to represent the Ukrainian flag. The pins were offered to Baker High School staff to send a message of support to Ukrainian students.

“I think our students are very fortunate because they are in a district where they have people to support them,” Hill said. “They have people to listen to them. They have people who can speak to them in their own language and who can help them get through a time that most young adults shouldn’t have to go through”

By the end of fourth period, the plate -- once overflowing with ribbons -- was empty. 

“I think that shows how much we care,” Hill said. “These students are our people. We are family here."

Hill said it’s also important to support Russian students during this time and she calls for students to support all those students who are impacted by this crisis. 

“Be there for them and listen to them,” she said. “Remember their family and friends are going through horrific things. Some students are not here today because they’re waiting to hear about their family.”

Superintendent Thomson also sent a letter to all district families this afternoon to show support and offer help.

“I want to take a moment today to express our grief and shock over the Russian invasion of Ukraine,” Thomson wrote. “The Baldwinsville Central School District is made up of students, staff and families from around the world, including Ukraine and Russia. We know that some members of our B’ville family are personally impacted. Please know that our thoughts and hearts are with you all.”

Counseling teams in each of our schools are available for our students who are impacted by this conflict. Please do not hesitate to contact your school for help.

Attention Caregivers: If you're looking for resources on talking with youth impacted the War in Ukraine, our Director of Pupil & Personnel Services suggests reviewing the following information: https://bit.ly/3pNTQFZ from the National Association of School Psychologists.