You may have already seen the TV news, social media, or read about it in the paper. Yesterday afternoon, a man wielding a knife in the area of 63rd and Elvas Avenue was arrested by Sacramento Police Department. This person was also later involved in another incident in the area of Mercy Hospital and Sacred Heart School.   We want to be very clear, no SFHS students or adults were involved, this message is strictly a safety message.  While these events are very rare in our area, it does remind us to always look at our personal safety, no matter where we are. All Troubies were reminded of the following:

• Scenarios like these were recently discussed in class meetings, and students were encouraged to report any unsafe or suspicious activity. If you See Something – Say Something.
• Never walk alone, always have at least one other person with you (try to walk in groups of three).
• Be aware. Don’t bury your head in your phone or in your music.  Be alert and mindful of your surroundings at all times.
• If you are concerned about a person, find a safe area to go to.  Tell the closest adult (store manager, teacher, parent etc.).  If you are fearful that the person may cause someone harm, call 9-1-1.
• Do not presume that everyone is either bad or good.  Appearances can be deceiving and you need to be cautious around anyone you are not familiar with.
• TALK with your parents, have a plan before an incident occurs, think ahead of how to respond to various situations.

Most of all in the last 10 days, there has been a plethora of overwhelming negative incidents and images bombarding our lives.  Please encourage your daughter/s to take time for self-care, turn-off the negative images, especially social media, and encourage them to take a brain break. Leave the worrying to the adults. If they absolutely cannot turn it off, then look at positive outlets that can empower them, such as registering for a CPR/First Aid or Self-Defense class, etc.  If your daughter/s need assistance, our Guidance Department and Wellness Counselors are two great resources available to them on campus. 

If you have any questions about school safety, feel free to contact our Dean of Students, Cynthia Cost at ccost@stfrancishs.org.