Dear Parents and Families, 

We are deeply saddened by the senseless tragedy that occurred at the Robb Elementary School in Uvalde, Texas yesterday. This tragedy touches all of us, both near and far, regardless of whether we are youth developers, teachers, parents, or children. The safety of the children we serve, our team members that care for them, our families and communities are paramount. 

All families deserve to feel secure that their children are safe and protected in their learning environments and schools. The physical safety and emotional well-being of our children and team members is the top priority at our YMCA afterschool and early education programs. Our programs follow rigorous safety protocols set forth by the Department of Early Education and Care including: 

• Staff-child ratios ensuring safe supervision of children 
• Detailed emergency evacuation plans 
• Team members are trained in emergency and lockdown procedures and emergency evacuations 

Your children, students, colleagues, relatives, and other members of our communities will likely have questions or concerns in response to the terrible event at Robb Elementary School today. Following are links to resources to assist you and others for supporting children. 

Talking to Children about Violence – National Association of School Psychologists 

Responding to Gun Violence – American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry 

How to Talk to Kids About School Shootings – Common Sense Media 

We hope that these materials may be of some assistance to you or someone you know who is affected by this tragedy. 

Our thoughts are with you and your families as you process this tragedy, and please reach out to your child’s program director if you need assistance during this time. And our thoughts will continue to be with the families, educators, and community of the Robb Elementary School in the days ahead. 

Sincerely, 

James Morton 
President and CEO 

Amy Gamache Turner 
Chief Program Officer