Message from Dr. Staloch: Supporting our community during difficult times

As the superintendent of Robbinsdale Area Schools, I serve to provide life chances to students. Like many of you, I have no words right now to help make sense of what is happening in our neighborhoods, in our cities and in our state. As a leader, after this weekend’s incidents, I also can’t remain silent. Public education exists to support students with the knowledge and skills they need to be successful, and our district stands firm in our mission, our purpose, which is to educate and inspire all learners to develop their unique potential and to positively contribute to their community.

The dedicated work of our staff each day centers on education and community. And our continued priority to our students, families and staff is to focus on student learning in a safe learning and work environment. Believe, Belong, Become is not just a district tagline, it is what we stand for…we believe in the potential and dignity of each person, we create a sense of belonging, inclusion and worth for each and every person in our classrooms, schools, and departments, and as we work to support one another through the challenges that face us, we will become stronger together. 

We see and hear about what is happening to our students, our staff, our families, and our neighbors. Our hearts are with all who are experiencing loss, fear and uncertainty each day. The disruptions to safety and learning are impacting members of our school district and community daily.  We send strength and support to those whose lives are being most impacted by the fear and lived experiences, and we mourn with our neighbors the loss of yet another life. 

In order to address the very real concerns for the psychological and physical safety of our students, staff and families, we are continuing to ensure all of our protocols are followed and that no one is in our schools who shouldn’t be there. Our staff, including our bus drivers, follow clear guidance. We work closely with our local law enforcement and are grateful for the partnership, support and responsiveness of our local PD. Our staff is providing the opportunity for temporary online learning options to families and we will continue to assess the instructional needs of our students. Our staff are connecting families with needed resources. I am connecting with legislators to convey the impact and disruption to student and staff safety and to student learning. 

I know you are all tired and this is not sustainable. Our staff are tired. Our families are tired. Our students are tired. And as we continue to show up for our students, I want to be sure you are showing up for one another and taking care of yourselves. You are all seen and valued. Please continue to reach out to your building principal as you have questions and needs. 

I live and lead with love and humanity.  Like many of you, I was with my neighbors, supporting those in my community over the weekend with my phone on, staying attentive to whatever texts or calls came in about our students, staff and families. And as you can imagine. I received texts and calls. Our leaders, our law enforcement, our staff, our families, and our community are doing all they can to provide support and safety so we can continue to educate and care for our students in safe spaces. Thank you for stepping up and thak you for taking a step back when you need to in order to care for yourselves and your loved ones.

I am sad. I am angry. And I am so proud of how Robbinsdale Area Schools and our community are showing up and staying focused on what matters most, our children!