McMeen Elementary

No School Tomorrow March 24, 2023

03/23/23, 12:49 PM

Dear DPS Families,

As we learn more about the developments coming out of the shooting that took place at East High School yesterday, I want to extend my heartfelt apologies to the East High School community, and the larger DPS community. No student, employee, or community member should have to carry fear of potential violence when they walk into our buildings each day.

To allow us all to take a moment to pause and process the challenging events this year, including the data breach, tomorrow, March 24, is a non-student contact mental health day for all DPS students and employees. To support families, we will have 14 Discovery Link extended care sites available from 7:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. Additionally, the district will be providing food pick up locations.

To assist in our collective healing, I want to reiterate the importance of connecting to our mental health, emotional wellness and workforce/community supports available through:

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)
I Matter Colorado imattercolorado.org Will direct students to an online survey for their needs and connect them to a therapist

In addition to the resources above, TherapyDirect is available as a same-day, online crisis counseling service available to adults ages 18+ in the Denver metro area. TherapyDirect provides quick access to a counselor for a confidential 55-minute online session. Individuals can receive up to three sessions a year at no cost and interpretation services are available upon request. TherapyDirect is available Monday-Friday 9:00 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.

If you have any concerns about your child or another student, please contact our mental health staff, or use the resources above. You may also find these resources for navigating anxiety and grief helpful.

Please continue to keep the East High School community in your thoughts. Know that we are committed to supporting our entire community during this time.

Sincerely,

Dr. Alex Marrero
Superintendent