Message from Mr. Sharp:

Dear Families,

Yesterday was a very hard day for our broader community. Despite some geographic distance, many of us at BBS have friends and loved ones in schools in Bend. The unspeakable tragedy is weighing heavy on all our hearts. School should be a safe place where our kids can be kids, and this outburst of violence can shatter that sense of safety and innocence. I hope that all our families can find time this weekend to hold each other close and appreciate all that we have.

Our thoughts and hearts are with the Silver Rail Elementary students, families, staff, and the entire community of Bend-La Pine School District.

Our school staff are grieving, but will also be there on Monday for our kids. Rachel will be at school on Monday morning to provide additional support to our students and families who may need it. You can reach out to her directly (roconnor@blackbutte.k12.or.us) if you or your child would benefit from a check in with her on Monday. We will do our best to help them process this tragedy and support the many emotions and feelings that will surely come up.

Keeping our students safe is our top priority and we will be reviewing all our safety protocols and ensuring that we are doing all we can to keep our school a place of joy, learning, and comfort for our students.

In the meantime, let’s allow ourselves to grieve for what was lost, and support each other to get through this very difficult time for our community. Here are links to some helpful resources as we navigate conversations with our kids and loved ones: