Message from Superintendent Murphy
June 2, 2020
Dear BCS Families/Caregivers, Students, and Staff:
I am saddened by the recent death of George Floyd and the circumstances surrounding recent events in our community and nation. Consequently, there is hurt, confusion and frustration that even adults are trying to understand why this is happening. For our children, they are asking many of the same questions and also trying to understand the different things they are seeing and hearing.
As adults who care about children, it is our responsibility to model respect and understanding for the health, safety and well-being of our children and each other. We are going to need to be able to support our children and families, and we need to be there for our staff, community and each other.
It is important for us to recognize and appreciate differences that are a foundation upon which our country is built and makes us a strong nation. Especially now, we are going to need to model acceptance, understanding, and compassion and help each other as we move forward through this very trying time.
I want you to know that Berkeley County Schools will be here to offer continued support to our students, parents, caregivers, staff and community in regards to respecting the differences that connect us as a community. It will be our responsibility, especially now, to cultivate a caring, safe and welcoming school community through our various initiatives and resources such as Equity and Inclusion initiatives, professional development, advisory groups, social and emotion learning and the Olweus Bullying prevention.
My request of you is to model the way with respectful and caring words and actions when interacting with others and especially the children in our community. You are their most powerful influence and greatest teacher. I have included some resources below to assist you while talking with our children and youth during this trying time.
Berkeley County Schools stands behind our commitment to support all our students, parents and caregivers, staff and community, especially those in our African American community, now and in the future.
Be well, stay safe.
Patrick K. Murphy, Superintendent of Schools
Berkeley County Schools
Berkeley County Schools, now 19,600 students strong, and growing, boasts a diverse population recognized statewide for great success in academics, the arts and athletics.
Email: info@berkeleycountyschools.org
Website: berkeleycountyschools.org
Location: 1453 Winchester Avenue, Martinsburg, WV, USA
Phone: 304-267-3500
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/berkeleycountyschools/
Twitter: @berkcoschoolswv