Dear HCSS Community,
Once again, we find ourselves horrified by news of another mass shooting at an elementary school in our country – this one claiming the lives of 19 young children and two teachers. We as a community stand with and grieve with, the families in Uvalde, Texas.
Even events that are thousands of miles away can have an effect on our community. Our students, parents, and teachers feel the impact of such senseless and random violence. Our school community will continue to come together to support our students and families with help from our administration and mental health teams. You can reach out to us if you or your child could use some support.
We want to reassure you that HCSS employs the most up-to-date safety measures that are designed to prevent this type of incident, and we regularly train faculty and staff with the help of close relationships with local police departments to swiftly respond to any incident that could put your children in jeopardy.
Our doors are locked immediately after students’ arrival in the morning, and no one gains entrance to our buildings without first being identified by central office staff. We have multiple security surveillance systems at both campuses that are closely monitored. We also have security guards on site.
We know that things like this are not only sad and painful but that they can also make our whole community feel anxious and afraid. We know that our students and employees might need more help during this time. The mental health of our students and staff is our priority. We have mental health support services in place for people who may be having a hard time after what happened yesterday. If you are in need of any support and are not sure who to contact, please reach out to our Directors, School Counselors, and Social workers. Also, there is a list of resources that you can benefit from during these difficult times.
Please feel free to reach out with any questions or concerns you or your child may have.
Tarkan Topcuoglu Superintendent/CEO, Hampden Charter School of Science(413) 593 9090 x200 | ttopcuoglu@hampdencharter.orgwww.hampdencharter.orgCentral Office, 20 Johnson Rd. Chicopee, MA 01022 |
HCSS WEST
Ms. Crystal Tarris
School Adjustment Counselor
(413) 278-5450 x405
Mr.Jordan Avelino, M. Ed
School Adjustment Counselor
Hampden Charter School of Science West
Phone: 413-278-5450 Ext: 502
HCSS EAST
Ms. Jessica Quill
Middle School Counselor
Tel.(413) 5939090 x212
Mr.Patrick Lewis
High School Counselor
Tel.(413) 593 9090 x 231
HCSS SCHOOL SOCIAL WORKER
Ms.Joan Normand
School Social Worker
Tel.(413) 593 9090 x 230
RESOURCES
· Managing Your Stress in the Aftermath of a Shooting (APA)
· How to Talk to Kids About School Shootings (Common Sense Media)
· Tips for families and educators on how to talk to children about violence