Some thoughts on Sandy Hook

It's December 18 and I've been thinking about how to connect with the group and share some thoughts about the shootings and deaths in Connecticut.  I've gone back and forth about writing at all - I decided to post because it is a way to process and because I think it is critical that we consider the leadership moments and responsibilities presented.

Let me begin by noting my deep sadness, grief, horror, fear and frustration.  I cannot adequately express how terribly I feel at times - when I imagine the actual event, when I imagine the parents of the children, when I imagine the teachers, when I imagine the aftermath for the administrative leaders....  One of my coping mechanisms is to intellectualize and to imagine doing, because there is little I feel I can actually do at this time.

If we were together in class, we would have discussed this event as a means to process.  As well, I imagine we would have guided the conversation to the future and considerations for our current work places as well as the decisions the administrative team in Sandy Hook will face in the coming weeks.

So I offer the following questions for consideration - I'm sure this is not an exhaustive list; this is just where my mind has gone.  None of these questions are meant to disrespect anyone or diminish the feelings involved - these are some of the pragmatics.

When does the school reopen?  Who will be the administrative leader?  How does a new principal get selected/assigned?  And how does that person even begin to take a leadership role?

Is this classroom ever used again?  What should be done with the classroom?

Do teachers need to be hired?  Do we hire within or recruit outside the district?

How does security need to be changed?  Do front office procedures change?

How much does the administrative team involve the community in various decision?  What are the appropriate decisions to consider input?

And when is it appropriate to begin these conversations?  How does the team respect and honor those lost and those living, and fulfill their responsibilities to the students and the community?

Okay.  Those are the immediate questions on my mind. Believe me, I wish we did not have this lesson.
In the back of my mind I hear a voice telling me "it's too soon. This is not the time or the place."  Perhaps not.  Yet, the Superintendent in the district and the rest of the leadership team will have to address these questions and others.

 It is overwhelming and heart wrenching.  And I trust that JDP 7 knows where I'm coming from.

Peace.