Letter to Parents: How to Help Children After Hurricane Irene

Superintendent of Schools Lynn Krizic submitted the following open letter to parents about how to talk to kids about Irene: 

Dear Portsmouthian families and staff,

The recent storm resulted in loss of power, property damage, changes to school schedules, and work disruptions. The effects of dangerous storms do not necessarily end when the power goes back on and schedules return to normal. The Family Service of RI, a member of the National Child Traumatic Stress Network, has asked us to share the "Parent Guidelines for Helping Children After a Hurricane" with our families. 

For some children and families, the anticipation and experience of a hurricane is a first time event. In order to assist you in responding to your child’s reaction to this storm or any storm in the future, I would encourage you to read through the attached document.  

Should you at any time feel you need any additional support for your child in the days, weeks, or year ahead, please feel free to call your child’s guidance counselor as s/he may be able to provide you with some additional information or strategies.

Best regards,

Lynn S. Krizic, Ed.D.

Superintendent

Portsmouth School District

29 Middle Road

Portsmouth, RI  02871

(401) 683-1039, Ext. 6

krizicl@portsmouthschoolsri.org