Dear APS Parents, Students and Community Members:

You may have heard about the tragedy that occurred earlier today at Virginia Tech University.  According to news reports, more than 30 people lost their lives and many suffered injuries.  I know that I speak on behalf of the APS Board of Education and for each of you when I say that our hearts go out to those impacted by this tragedy.

The situation that took place at Virginia Tech is upsetting and may create concern for our students and parents.  The immediate focus of Aurora Public Schools staff is to offer reassurance to our students.  APS crisis counselors can visit with students who need help dealing with this news. Simply let your child's principal or teacher know of this need and they will arrange for crisis counselors to meet with your child.

Our top priority is to ensure safety for every APS student and staff member.   Our APS Incident Response Team actively evaluates our schools for safety and trains in emergency response. 

I have sent a similar message to all APS staff members as well. We have asked all APS staff members to take a few extra minutes over the next 24 hours to ensure that they are familiar with lockdown and evacuation procedures.  Also let this incident serve as a reminder for all of us of the importance of being alert in our environments.  If you visit our schools, please enter through the main entrance and follow the established sign in procedures. 

If you are ever in doubt about the safety and security of your site, do not hesitate to contact school staff or report safety concerns through our Safe2Tell anonymous alert hotline at 1-877-542-SAFE.

Together, we can keep our schools safe for our students.

Sincerely,

John L. Barry
Superintendent, Aurora Public Schools