School Resources Available

Dear BCSD Families, 

It is with a heavy heart that I reach out to you today in light of the unspeakable and senseless tragedy that occurred yesterday at Robb Elementary School in Uvalde, Texas, which follows so closely on the heels of the Buffalo shooting in our own region less than two weeks ago. 

Sadness, frustration, hopelessness, anger, and fear are just a few of the emotions we all share in moments like these. It’s unimaginable to think about a tragedy like this happening in a place where students are supposed to feel the safest—at school.  

Sadly, this is not the first school shooting that has occurred in my years as an educator, but I can certainly only hope and pray it will be the last. In these times of grief, confusion, and fear, we want to be a source of comfort for our students and help guide them through the questions and emotions they are bound to have.

I met with our school principals and counselors first thing this morning to gather grade-level specific resources to help you and your children process the events of the past few weeks. 

To access these resources, please see the information below:

Jackson Primary Resources:

Sesame Street in Communities resources on Violence

John Kennedy Intermediate Resources:

Talking to Kids About Fear and Violence

Batavia Middle School Resources:

How to Discuss Violence in Schools With Children

After a Crisis: Helping Young Children Heal

Batavia High School Resources:

Talking to Teens About Violence

For Teens: Coping After Mass Violence

General Resources K-12:

Talking to Children About Violence: Tips for Parents and Teachers

Talking to Kids About School Safety

In addition, each school in our district regularly conducts lockdown drills as required by New York State. We maintain a strong partnership with the Batavia Police Department, have security aides in each building, and a district-wide School Resource Officer.  

If you would like to speak directly to your child’s counselor or principal, please reach out to: 

Jackson Primary: 585-343-2480, ext 4000

John Kennedy Intermediate: 585-343-2480, ext 5000

Batavia Middle School: 585-343-2480, ext 3000

Batavia High School: 585-343-2480, ext 2000

While we might not have all the answers, we promise to stand with our families and students and listen.

Please take care of each other in moments like these, and please reach out should you or your family need any assistance.  

Sincerely, 

Jason A. Smith 

Superintendent of Schools 

343-2480, ext 1000

jasonsmith@bataviacsd.org