District Response to Oxford School Shootings

November 30, 2021

Dear Clarenceville Families,

This afternoon, we learned of the school shooting at Oxford High School in Oakland County. At approximately 1:00 p. m. this afternoon, the Oakland County Sheriff’s Department responded to an active shooter at Oxford High School. Details are still being investigated however the OCSD has reported that the student suspect is in custody and that there are several victims (three fatalities and eight injured).

Our hearts go out to the Oxford school community and the students, parents, teachers, staff, and administrators of Oxford High School during this tragic and difficult time. An event like this can have an impact on our students and staff, especially when it happens so close to our area. We understand that many of our students and staff have heard of the incident and some may have seen images on the news or social media that are disturbing. An event like this impacts our school community in many different ways as some of our families, students and/or staff may have connections with family, students or staff at Oxford High School and the greater community. Tragedies such as this create a sense of fear and sadness for all of us in education.

If you have a child in need of support, trained staff and administrators will be available to your students at school. If you are looking for ways to speak with your child about today’s incident, please refer to the following resources:

Talking to Children About Violence

How to Talk to Kids About School Shootings

Please pay close attention to your students’ emotional state and reassure them that they are safe. Our school administrators and staff will review building emergency procedures already in place regarding potential threats to our schools. Our protocols for visitors are established and we always encourage all parents, students and staff to report anything they hear or see that could potentially harm those in our school community.

Right now, we need to take time to support one another, and to offer our support to friends and neighbors who may have been touched by this school shooting. Please take a moment to remember the victims of violence and their families, and take care of yourself and your loved ones. Our thoughts and prayers are with everyone affected by this tragedy, and our hearts go out to the entire Oxford Community.

Paul K. Shepich

Superintendent Clarenceville School District

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