Communication #4 April 25, 2024 – 1:41 pm
BMHS Debriefing Meeting With Students-Principal Bernsley
Dear Community Members,
I wanted to take a moment to update you on an important meeting we held with all students this morning regarding yesterday’s lockout incident.
During the meeting, we emphasized the significance of taking all threats seriously and the importance of promptly reporting anything that may seem inappropriate or threatening to an adult. It’s crucial that our students understand the gravity of such situations and feel empowered to speak up when they encounter anything concerning.
In speaking with the students, I emphasized the critical distinction between video games and reality, stressing that what they see and experience in games does not always reflect real-life situations. I highlighted the potential dangers of blurring the lines between virtual and reality. In speaking to them about the potential consequences of taking game narratives too seriously, I aimed to promote a healthy understanding of digital entertainment and its boundaries within our daily lives.
Additionally, we reassured students that it’s okay to feel scared or upset in moments like these and encouraged them to seek assistance from a trusted adult within the building. We want our students to know that their safety and well-being are our top priorities, and we are here to support them in any way we can.
Moreover, we stressed the importance of open communication and encouraged students to express themselves freely. It’s vital that they feel heard and understood, especially during times of uncertainty or distress.
It would be greatly appreciated if you could take some time to discuss these points with your child. To assist you in these conversations and to provide further information or guidance, please find the following links:
-
Helping Your Child Heal After Trauma (for Parents) | Nemours KidsHealth
-
Helping Very Young Children Cope after a Trauma (nationwidechildrens.org)
As a community, it’s essential that we come together to ensure the safety and security of our students. By fostering an environment of trust, support, and open dialogue, we can better equip our students to navigate challenging situations and advocate for their own safety. If you have any questions or concerns, please contact me at dbernsley@berlincentral.org or (518) 658-1500 x1005.
Thank you for your continued support and cooperation as we work together to maintain a safe and nurturing environment for all members of our school community.
Warm regards,
Dave Bernsley
Berlin Middle High School Principal
——————————————————————————————————————————————————————-
Communication #3 4/25/24 3:45 pm
Dear Families,
We would like to take a moment to update the community on today’s district wide lock out.
First and foremost, we would like to thank the Rensselaer County Sheriff’s Office, BCSD’s School Resource Officer Deputy Dalessio, New York State Police, and Questar III BOCES Health and Safety, for their quick response and support.
It has been determined that there is no active threat to anyone in the district. As the investigation is ongoing, no further information is available at this time.
The secure lock outs in our buildings were lifted effective at the end of the school day. We will resume a normal school day tomorrow, April 25, 2024.
Threats of all kinds, even if made in jest or made anonymously, are taken very seriously. Please know that safety is of the utmost importance at Berlin CSD. We ask you to reinforce with your children the importance of reporting any suspicious activity to an adult as soon as possible.
If your student or you have any questions please do not hesitate to reach out to our building administrators
We have also provided some resources below to assist you in discussing matters such as these with your child.
- age_related_reactions_to_traumatic_events.pdf (nctsn.org)
- Helping Children and Adolescents Cope With Traumatic Events – National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH) (nih.gov)
- Helping Your Child Heal After Trauma (for Parents) | Nemours KidsHealth
- Helping Very Young Children Cope after a Trauma (nationwidechildrens.org)
We appreciate our school community’s support and patience during this event.
Dr. Maureen Long
Interim Superintendent
Communication #2 11:00 am
Dear Families,
We would like to give the community an update on the alleged threat investigation from this morning at the Berlin Middle High School.
It has been determined that there is no active threat to anyone in the district’s buildings.
The Rensselaer County Sheriff’s Office along with the Berlin CSD’s School Resource Officer, and Administration continues to investigate the initial report.
Out of an abundance of caution and recommendation from the Rensselaer County Sheriff’s Office the Berlin Elementary School will be placed in a secure lockout and the Berlin Middle High School will remain in a secure lockout for the remainder of the day. Only known individuals will be allowed to exit or enter the buildings. Students will be attending classes and learning as usual.
Afterschool BNL Athletic activities including practices, meets, games, and open-gym have been canceled for today, April 24, 2024.
As the investigation is ongoing, you may notice an increased police presence on both campuses. We will continue to work with law enforcement. Threats of all kinds, even if made in jest or made anonymously, are taken very seriously.
Please know that safety is of the utmost importance at Berlin CSD. If and when additional information becomes available we will share it with the community.
Dr. Maureen Long
Interim Superintendent
Communication #1 8:40 am
Dear Families,
This morning, Wednesday, April 24, 2024, at approximately 7:00 am, the Berlin Middle High School received a report from a parent regarding an alleged threat involving the Berlin Middle High School.
Upon learning of this, the District in conjunction with the School Resource Officer, who is onsite, immediately contacted the Rensselaer County Sheriff’s Department and following arrival the middle high school building went into a secure lockout. This means students, parents, and community members cannot enter or leave the building. The students are following their regular schedule and learning as usual.
This threat is isolated to the middle high school and does not include the elementary building. The school day at Berlin Elementary will proceed as scheduled at this time.
As the investigation is ongoing, you may notice an increased police presence on both campuses. We will continue to work with law enforcement. Threats of all kinds, even if made in jest or made anonymously, are taken very seriously.
Please know that safety is of the utmost importance at Berlin CSD.
We will update you as more information becomes available.
Dr. Maureen Long
Interim Superintendent