January 7, 2021

Dear Orange County Schools Families, Students and Staff--

As the nation and our children read, hear and watch about the riots at the U.S. Capitol building, we are reminded just how important it is for our school system to teach about and model civility and respect for our democracy.

Civic engagement is the foundation of our democracy. Orange County Schools respects and supports the right to demonstrate and peacefully protest. We strongly condemn all attempts to incite violence and will not tolerate acts of hate that counter our shared democratic principles. 

Over the next few days, our school counselors  and school social workers will provide support for students and staff, as well as an opportunity to express their views in safe spaces. We also encourage staff and  parents to talk with their children about these issues and have provided a list of resources below.

Please be encouraged and know that Orange County Schools is committed to acknowledging our differences while upholding our country’s democracy.

Sincerely,

Hillary MacKenzie
Chair, Orange County Schools Board of Education

Monique Felder, Ph.D.
Superintendent, Orange County Schools

Resources:

• Caring for Students in the Wake of Traumatic News Event
• How to Talk to your Kids about the Chaos at the Capitol
• Talking to Children About Violence: Tips for Parents and Teachers
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• EveryMind
• Resources for Families: Talking About Race and Racism
• Supporting Marginalized Students in the Context of The 2020 Election