Message from Superintendent Jones on Supports for Students during times of International Conflict  

Dear SPS families and staff, 

Many in our community are directly affected by the violence in Israel and Gaza. 

The Seattle Public Schools (SPS) community represents many races, ethnicities, and backgrounds – including families with cultural ties to Israel and Palestine.

The situation is complex. It is emotionally and politically charged. It is critical we continue to create a safe and welcoming educational environment for our students. It is acceptable that we as individuals hold different opinions about the conflict and complex history of Israel and Palestine, but Antisemitic or Islamophobic speech or acts will never be tolerated in our district.

My team has collected some resources that may be useful for families as they talk about these events. 

Resources

For students by age group:

• All Ages: Common Sense Media – How to Talk to Kids about Violence, Crime, and War 
• Elementary: American Psychological Association – Resilience in time of war (elementary school students) 
• Middle School: American Psychological Association – Resilience in time of war (middle school students) 
• Teens: American Psychological Association – Resilience in time of war (students in adolescence) 

We are here to support you and your families. If you or your student feel anxious, please reach out for support. SPS and the greater Seattle community have many resources available. 

Many of our middle and high schools have teen health centers. Our school counselors and interventionists as well as their consistent classroom teachers are supportive adults our students can reach out to.  

Additionally, Crisis Connections provides a 24-hour crisis line at 866-427-4747. Older students can also access Teen Link at 866-833-6546.   

We are united as a community to support and care for each other. 

Sincerely, 

Superintendent Brent Jones 
Seattle Public Schools