Oak Forest Schools Ready for Students' Questions on Sandy Hook

Following the tragedy in Newtown, Conn., parents across the country wondered how and if they should talk about the events of Sandy Hook Elementary School.

Oak Forest school administrators are doing the same and have staff poised to tackle any of the students' concerns, questions or fears. 

Forest Ridge School District 142 Superintendent Margaret Longo said the district always has counselors and psychiatrists present at district schools,  available for students to express what might be weighing on their minds. She added that the district schools have been in constant contact with families throughout the weekend.

“Our parents have done a tremendous job handling the situation,” Longo said. “We did send an email out to families over the weekend, addressing some tips on how to talk to their children about it."

In Arbor Park School District 145, Superintendent Allen Jebens said through a representative that counselors were available to students, staff, teachers and even parents.

Jebens also met with the principals of each school in the district Friday night and Monday morning to discuss how to handle the delicate situation.

Both superintendents said that the schools are trying to heighten the awareness and vigilance of staff, to be on the lookout for students who may need somebody to talk to.