Teller Elementary School
Community Letter from Mrs. Bates
03/22/23, 1:17 PM
Dear Teller Families,
As you know, student safety is my top priority. Today, I called a lockout (secure perimeter) after learning about the shooting at East High School. Knowing that the suspect was at large, I felt that it was in the best interest of my students and staff to keep everyone inside.
A lockout is called when there is a threat or hazard outside of the school building. Whether it’s due to violence or criminal activity in the immediate neighborhood, or a dangerous animal on the playground, a lockout uses the security of the physical facility to act as protection.
I lifted the lockout when I learned that the Denver Police Department gave clearance to Denver Public Schools to begin releasing students at East High School.
Our staff shared very little information about today’s incident with our students. If/when students asked why we were in a lockout, our response was that there was an incident in the neighborhood that required police assistance. We didn’t share details other than it is best for us to stay inside until we hear it is safe to go outside.
We understand that incidents like these can be very distressing for students, staff, parents/guardians, and community members, and we want to assure you that we take your child’s safety seriously. Our priority is always to ensure that our students and staff are safe, and we will continue to take all necessary steps to maintain a safe environment for everyone in our school community.
This may be a time when you would like support with talking to your child(ren) about loss, depression or suicide. Please do not hesitate to reach out to the school, or one of the community providers below:
|
Name |
Number |
Description |
|
Colorado Crisis and Support Line. |
844-493-8255, or Text TALK to 38255. |
Resource for mental health, substance use, or emotional crisis help – information and referrals |
|
National Suicide Hotline |
800-273-8255 |
24-hour toll-free confidential suicide prevention hotline |
|
Second Wind Fund |
303-988-2645 |
Provides free counseling to underinsured and uninsured youth that are suicidal |
|
Trevor Project Hotline |
866-488-7386 |
Crisis intervention and suicide prevention services for LGBTQ+ youth |
|
Safe2Tell Colorado |
877-542-7233 |
An anonymous way to report any concern impacting students (phone, app, online reporting options) |
If you have any concerns about your child or another student in Denver Public Schools, please contact our mental health staff (aileen_cerezo@dpsk12.net or jason_smartt@dpsk12.net) or use the resources listed above.
As of now, we will continue with our normal daily schedule, including after school enrichment. If anything changes, I will definitely reach out. Thank you for trusting me with your children!
Best,
Sabrina Bates, Principal
720-424-3562
