From the Desk of the Superintendent

Superintendent Deborah A. Flores, Ph.D.

March 15, 2001

Dear Parents/Guardians:

Last week, the nation was again riveted by stories of school violence. Public and private schools are not immune to the problems that face society. Incidents such as we have seen most recently in California, Pennsylvania, and Oregon serve to remind us of the importance of a strong home/school/community working relationship. Every student has the right to be educated in a safe learning environment and, as your partner in education, we must work together to guarantee that right.

On Monday, March 12, 2001, I asked every school in the Santa Barbara High School District to read the enclosed letter to students. I want to share this letter with you so that you are aware of the message and can continue this important discussion in your home.

The National Crime Prevention Council is one of many resources on the topic of safe schools. For your consideration, I am enclosing the following materials: 12 Things Parents Can Do and 12 Things Students Can Do to stop school violence. Let us continue working together and taking responsibility for the well-being of all children in our community.

Sincerely,
Deborah A. Flores, Ph.D.
Superintendent