Sonoma School District Reassures Families of Emergency Plans

Sonoma Valley Unified School District sent a letter to local families following the deadly school shooting in Newtown, Conn. on Friday. Twenty-six people died in that incident—20 of them children ages 6 and 7. The gunman, identified as Adam Lanza, then fatally shot himself, police reported. His mother's body was found at the home where the two lived. She died of multiple gunshot wounds, according to police.

The SVUSD letter to Sonoma families on Friday stated:

"Please be assured that district-wide and school-by-school our campuses remain secure and student safety continues to be a first priority.

"All staff is informed and practiced in campus emergency procedures and their collective roles within their campus emergency plans. Those procedures are reviewed regularly. Should you want specific information about the emergency plan at your child’s school, please contact the principal directly. Additionally, our District staff and Board of Trustees have a close working relationship with our local law enforcement agency and we will draw on that collaborative relationship should an emergency arise.

"We have taken steps to provide educators in our district with information so they are able to speak with their students regarding this terrible tragedy.

"Our thoughts and prayers go out to the families, communities, and educators who have been tragically impacted by this event."

The letter offered resources for families about how to explain the Newtown tragedy to children. It was signed by District Superintendent Louann Carlomagno.

A copy of the letter is attached.

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