Southeast Polk Families, 

We are sad to share that several of our families and staff members have been greatly impacted by the severe weather on Saturday night. Polk County Emergency Management and the Red Cross set up their reception hub in response to the event at Four Mile Elementary Saturday night. It continues to be open today, Sunday, until 2:00. Hy Vee set up grills at Four Mile to provide free lunch to anyone in the area who was affected. In typical Southeast Polk fashion, the outpouring of support within the community has been incredible.

We are planning to welcome all students to school on Monday (3/7/22) and seek to provide a sense of normalcy and a consistent routine. We will likely speak to students briefly about what happened and give them an opportunity to share their thoughts and feelings about how they were personally impacted by the storm and to share their concerns for others. Our goal will be to normalize all feelings and also remind students that adults are here to help keep them safe

Ways to help

• We appreciate the immediate outpouring of support and offers to help. At this time, we are allowing the Red Cross and first responders to assess the damage and determine what help is needed.
• If individuals or community groups are looking for immediate ways to help, the Red Cross has shared they would benefit most from cash donations. They are not in need of clothing or food donations at this time.
• As SEP becomes aware of additional needs for students and families over the next few weeks, we will make that information available for community members or groups who wish to donate or organize drives.

Resources

• Caring Hands Food Pantry is open from 3:00-5:00 on Mondays and Wednesdays.
• School counselors will be available on Monday to talk to students who are struggling with reactions to the aftermath of the tornadoes. 
• Families are also encouraged to seek out counseling and/or 24/7 phone consultations through our Student Assistance Program at 515-244-6090. Additional information and mental health resources are listed on the Southeast Polk website.
• For more information on talking to your child about what has happened, see any of the following resources:
  • Helping Children After a Natural Disaster: Tips for Parents and Educators (one page summary from NASP)
  • Helping Children Cope after a Traumatic Event (ChildMind Institute)
  • Answering Children’s Questions about Natural Disasters (Bright Horizons)

We are thinking about all of our families and staff and sending our support to each and every one of you.

Dr. Dirk Halupnik
Superintendent
Southeast Polk Schools

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