Dear Colleague:

The 2016 election has been long and fraught with strong emotions. As a nation, we have much to
do to heal the divisiveness that has resulted. In Pennsylvania, we have students (regardless of
who they supported) who are fearful for a variety of reasons and, sadly, have already seen
several incidents in the days after the election that raise concern about the safety of our learning
environments for all students.
As parents, caregivers, and educators, we have a critical responsibility to help children and youth
feel safe and secure and learn how to engage with others of differing viewpoints in a peaceful,
tolerant, and respectful manner. As always, schools play a critical role in this process by creating
a positive learning environment for all students. It is imperative that educators facilitate
respectful discussions among students and safeguard the well-being of those who may feel at
risk. As school psychologists, we play a critical role in supporting and facilitating appropriate
adult responses and helping students move forward in a positive manner.
The Association of School Psychologists of Pennsylvania (ASPP) joins the National Association
of School Psychologists (NASP) in supporting our collective members in this work. In particular,
we want to draw your attention to the following NASP resources: "NASP Post Election
Statement", "Understanding Race and Privilege", "Lesson Plan on Race and Privilege for Middle
School and High School", and "Supporting Marginalized Students in Stressful Times. These are
available at:
http://www.nasponline.org/about-school-psychology/media-room/press-releases/nasp-guidancefor-reinforcing-safe-supportive-and-positive-school-environments-for-all-students
http://www.nasponline.org/resources-and-publications/resources/diversity/social-justice
We will continue to share resources and supports. Thank you for all of your hard work.
Respectfully,
ASPP Executive Board
Jason A. Pedersen, Ph.D., NASP Delegate PA

(adapted from Cowan, K., November 2016)

http://www.aspponline.org