Derek Chauvin Trial

April 20, 2021

Dear Lowell Families,

 

Upon hearing the news that the jury for the Derek Chauvin trial had gone into deliberation, my heart felt a familiar sense of déja vu. We have been here before—too many times.

 

Since the horrific events of January 6th, this year has been filled with outrage, tragedy, and sadness, from the deaths of Daunte Wright in Minnesota and Adam Toledo in Chicago to the rise in violence against Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders and the recent spate of mass shootings. One has to wonder if the trial’s outcome will lead to more unrest and violence regardless of the jury’s decision.

 

Graphic accounts of violence permeate the news and our social media feeds, and the raw emotions are palpable. None of us are immune, including our children. You have heard me say before that children are always listening and carefully watching, taking their cues from us on what and how to feel. Processing events like the ones we are experiencing is difficult, even for adults, especially in an intentionally inclusive environment such as the Lowell community, where different people will have different experiences and feelings. This makes our work supporting children in processing their thoughts and feelings in the coming days, weeks, and months necessary and important. For these reasons, I hope you find this list of resources and tips helpful as you and your family process the verdict of the trial:

 

 

In the classrooms of Lowell School, we are prepared to address these issues with sensitivity and care. As a school, we remain committed to listening to the voices of our students, emphasizing the deep conceptual understanding children need to make sense of the world around them, and supporting the growth of students who advocate for equity and justice. Similarly, we are committed to partnering with our families to help you through these troubling times. Please feel free to contact your child’s division director or division counselor (Aline Anders, Pre-Primary and Primary Counselor; Teryn Gilmore, Middle School Counselor) should you have any questions or need support in the days to come.

 

“Our unity is our strength, and our diversity is our power.” Let us move through these next days and weeks, keeping Vice-President Kamala Harris’ words in our hearts, minds, and actions. Our children deserve nothing less. I am proud to be present for them, with you.

 

Sincerely,

 

Donna