Family Safety Letter
October 10, 2018
Dear Garfield families:
We have had a strong and focused start to the school year and have been excited to see our students and families. We continue to work with students to ensure that we have a positive school culture and a welcoming environment for all students.
We also want to ensure that our schools remain safe, therefore we are updating you on an incident that recently happened at Garfield.One of our students saw some online information that appeared to be a threat. Although the student initially believed that the statement was “a joke”, he followed the “see something, say something” guidance and made a report to an adult. Administration reviewed the information and immediately took action. The Seattle Police Department (SPD) was notified, the suspect was identified and removed from campus for further questioning. SPD determined that there was sufficient evidence to arrest the suspect. Although the investigation is not complete, the involved parents have been contacted. The student is being disciplined consistent with district procedures.
As you are aware, adolescent students have complex social dynamics. Ensuring that students know appropriate behavioral expectations and that all students are safe is our goal. I want to applaud our student for coming forward and making sure that everyone remains safe.
Most importantly, we wanted to let families know about these conversations and ask families to help all our students understand the importance of keeping schools safe and the importance of sharing critical safety information immediately with adults at school. We are providing a link to some additional information that might be helpful during these discussions. http://www.seattle.gov/police
Please be assured that the safety and security of our students is a top priority at Garfield High School. If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact us.
Principal Ted Howard II