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I can’t imagine what you’re going through. My campus went through a false alarm, but we didn’t know that at the time. One thing that helped my kids was letting them talk it out. I explained to them it’s ok to be afraid - I told them I had been afraid too. I explained that being afraid is never a bad thing - it’s what you do while afraid that makes the difference. I’m sorry I can’t be of more help...
I had this happen at my school this year. There was no actual threat but my kids were crying and shaking and nobody knew what was going on. we all had nightmares and they still jump when someone comes on the all-call intercom.
I teach 5th grade, but when we came back to school we sat down in a circle and just talked about how we were feeling. It’s important that how they felt was validated, even if there wasn’t a real threat. It’s a scary time to be in school and they need to feel comfortable talking to you and their parents about their concerns. We have a very extensive lockdown procedure and active shooter training, but if you don’t, maybe take the time to talk about ways you could make your space the safest. If you already have that, talk about what went well and what could improve, but also praise them for (hopefully) handling the situation well.
It was such a scary thing and I hope everyone at your school is ok. Please let your kids talk about how it made them felt and answer questions they might have about it. As their teacher, you also have the right to feel scared, and you can admit that to them, but also let them know what is in place at your school to keep them safe
Hope this helps!
It’s always good to process it with them. Let them express their feelings and validate them. I find connecting with them by sharing what you may have been thinking/feeling helps too. It allows them to know that they’re not alone in how they’re feeling. That’s what I did during 9/11. I know it’s not them same but then kids were pretty scared and allowing them to express themselves and bond with other that related to their thoughts and feelings helped. Journaling also helps them get their thoughts out of their heads as well. I encourage you to journal what you experienced as well...and talk to someone yourself who can validate what you experienced. I’m so sorry you and your school/students had to go through that. Was everyone safe? Did they disarm the shooter?
I as well went through one a couple of months back. As a student just sitting down and having a conversation with the class always helped a lot of us. Just have some heart to heart conversation
Does your district have crisis counselors that can speak to your students?
I listened to this American life
I am so sorry to hear about this now too common occurrence is happening to you. When your students are talking about it, remember active listening skills so they feel heard. For you, talk about it with friends who can do the same for you. Remember, school counselors can listen to you too and have a code of ethics when they do. Plus, they can give you guidance about these issues as well. Sending positive thoughts your way.
I have had honest and frank conversations with my kiddos. I said in no uncertain terms that they mean the irks to me, they are safe with me, and I will do everything in my power to keep them safe. Nothing negative will happen to them when they are with me...
I went home, screamed and cried. I was lucky it was during my prep so I was alone. But nothing prepares you for swat banging on your door. I was also upset because no one told us anything that was going in, just to close our doors and lock them like they were doing a hall sweep.
Continue to let them know you will always keep them safe!
We had one about a month ago. Police with guns were in the hall right next to my room. I’m not sure if you ever mentally recover from it. It has made me much more aware to always keep my door locked and be more vigilant of looking for signs. I wish I had a good answer for you. Hopefully, one day the images and sounds go away.