April 28, 2009

Recent arrest of high school student can spur important community and family conversations
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Dear Parents and Guardians:

By now, you are likely aware a Barrington High School student was arrested this past weekend on some very disturbing charges. Yesterday, we were quick to cooperate with the Barrington Hills Police in providing a concise message to staff, students and parents at the high school. A copy of that statement is attached to this e-newsletter.

Since last night, various news outlets have correctly reported on this investigation. Tonight, Channel 5 NBC News in Chicago as well as other media will cover the case again. Their stories will feature interviews with Barrington 220 administrators and parents about all we do to support students during unfortunate circumstances such as these.

Although you may not yet have children at Barrington High School, there are important points I can underscore from this incident for you and your family. First, Barrington High School is a wonderful school with compassionate staff and high safety standards. This sad episode is not at all representative of the remarkable students and community the high school serves.

Second, if you feel it is appropriate, take a moment to speak with your older elementary or middle school children about the value of wise decisions, how to respect others and the lasting consequences of making bad choices. Renew your commitment to family dialogue and being familiar with the whereabouts and friends of your children at all times. Use this story to remind students how to safeguard themselves in vulnerable situations.

With this regrettable occurrence as the context, please create a positive life lesson to share with your children and adolescents. Their social-emotional well being is our greatest concern. Working together, we can plant the seeds today to prevent more tragedies like this from happening again in the future.

Sincerely, Tom Leonard
tleonard@cusd220.org