October 1, 2008

Dear Parents and Guardians:

We know you are aware of the tragic incident that occurred yesterday morning in which a 2 year old child was fatally injured in an accident involving a school bus in North Amherst, our Mark’s Meadow School community. We extend our deepest sympathies to the immediate and extended family of the child and to the entire community. This is an event to which everyone connects and empathizes.

Last night families and staff met at Mark’s Meadow with Co-Superintendent Sprague, Principal Yaffe, psychological, and counseling staff to share thoughts about what occurred and to prepare to respond as a school and as a community. Today, Mr. Yaffe will visit each classroom with counselors on hand to support our students and staff, many of whom know the child and his family members.

District administration and support professionals are in communication with the family of the child and ongoing support is being provided. A fund will be established today with a local bank to help the family of the child. As soon as information is available about how to contribute, it will be posted on the district website at www.arps.org. You may also call your principal’s office for information.

Understandably, many community members have expressed concern for all those touched by this tragedy, including the family, the bus driver, and witnesses to the accident. We remain committed to providing ongoing support to all those involved in the coming days. At the individual building level, support will be available through our counseling and guidance services for all district students and staff for the next several days. If you have questions about the availability and type of support being provided, please contact your building principal.

Sincerely,

Helen Vivian
Co-Superintendent of Schools