Dear County and District Superintendents and Charter School Administrators:

Supporting School Communities in the Aftermath of Tragedy

The tragedy at Silver Rail Elementary School in Bend, Oregon, on October 15, continues to weigh heavily on our hearts. The loss of three young children and a teacher, along with the injuries sustained by others, is a heartbreaking reminder of the devastating impact of violence on school communities. We continue to hold in our thoughts the families who have lost loved ones, the students and educators whose lives have been forever changed, and the entire Bend community as they navigate the difficult days and weeks ahead.

Every child deserves to feel safe at school, and every parent deserves the peace of mind that comes with knowing their child is protected and cared for. Our schools must remain places where students can learn, grow, and thrive in environments that foster safety and well-being.

Although this tragedy occurred outside California, its impact extends beyond the Bend community. Students, families, and educators across our state may be experiencing sadness, concern, or anxiety in its aftermath. This underscores the importance of ensuring that every school community has the support and resources it needs.

I encourage all school and district leaders to take this opportunity to review their school safety plans, emergency response procedures, and communication protocols. This includes working closely with school safety teams, staff, families, and local law enforcement and emergency response partners to ensure plans are current, clearly understood, and regularly practiced.

Equally important is supporting the emotional well-being of students and staff. News of school violence can create fear and anxiety, even for those far from the tragedy. I encourage schools to communicate with families, provide age-appropriate reassurance to students, and ensure that mental health and counseling resources are available to those who need them.

I recognize the tremendous responsibility our educators and school leaders carry every day. Your continued commitment to preparedness, prevention, and the physical and emotional safety of students is essential. The California Department of Education and I remain committed to supporting your efforts and providing resources to help schools maintain safe, welcoming, and supportive learning environments.

School safety and emergency preparedness resources are available through the California Department of Education Supporting Students After a School Tragedy web page at https://www.cde.ca.gov/ls/ss/cp/aftertragedy.asp and the California Governor’s Office of Emergency Services School Emergency Planning and Safety web page at https://www.caloes.ca.gov/office-of-the-director/operations/planning-preparedness-prevention/planning-preparedness/school-emergency-planning-safety/.

As we continue to hold the Bend community in our thoughts, let us renew our shared commitment to protecting every student and educator—not only in the immediate aftermath of tragedy, but every day. Thank you for your leadership, your continued vigilance, and your unwavering dedication to the safety and well-being of California’s students and school communities.

Sincerely,

Tony Thurmond
State Superintendent of Public Instruction