North Hills Superintendent Issues Letters to Parents in Wake of Connecticut School Shooting

In the wake of the mass murder at Sandy Hook Elementary school in Newtown, Connecticut Friday, North Hills Schools Superintendent Dr. Patrick J. Mannarino issued the following letter to district parents.

The tragic events that have occurred in Connecticut serve as a stark reminder that America’s schools are not immune to violence. On behalf of the North Hills School District, I extend our heartfelt sympathy to the family, friends, faculty and staff that have been touched by this tragedy that claimed so many lives in a Connecticut elementary school. 

Attached, we have assembled some materials that may assist you in speaking to your child about this recent tragedy. (see .pdf files)

North Hills School District remains vigilant in its commitment to safety. A districtwide, comprehensive safety plan was implemented in 1999 and is updated annually. All district schools are locked through the school day and require visitors to use a monitored buzzer system to gain entry. Once inside, all parents and other visitors must sign-in at the office, where they are issued a visitor’s badge.

Our first priority, as always, remains the safety and welfare of our students and staff. We thank you for your cooperation in these efforts.

North Hills Emergency Drills/Security

District buildings regularly hold drills to prepare students and staff in the event of an emergency. All district schools are locked throughout the school day and require visitors to use a monitored buzzer system to gain entry. 

North Hills Emergency Notification System

All information would be sent immediately to parents via a phone call to the number listed on the district's GlobalConnect system. This number is the same one used for weather-related delays and cancellations.

An emergency E-link would be sent to all subscribers, and information would be be posted on the district website and social media platforms. As well information would be included on the Newsline phone number.

The district's communications coordinator also would be in touch with local news media ensuring that correct and factual information is being shared with the community.

For the very latest on the Connecticut shooting, click here for coverage from the Newtown Patch.