District 39 Message On Highland Park Tragedy
Posted on 07/04/2022

Dear District 39 Staff, Families, and Community Members,

I hope you all have enjoyed the early weeks of summer and were able to safely celebrate the holiday weekend with friends and loved ones. Today our neighbors in Highland Park experienced a terrible tragedy while celebrating the 4th of July. We have been in contact with members of our learning community who live in Highland Park and have pledged our unequivocal support as we continue to stay strong and stay together in the face of tragedy.

Our hearts and thoughts are with everyone who was affected by today’s shooting.

The safety of our students and staff is always and unwaveringly our top priority, and that responsibility is something we take incredibly seriously. As we process another act of violence and support one another, this time in a place all too close to where we call home, we wish to express our gratitude for the strong partnership that we have with the Wilmette Police and Wilmette Fire Departments. Their support and guidance is integral in our mission of safety and support for all students and staff. 

District 39’s commitment to social-emotional learning is more than just another tenet of our education, it is integral to the school experience of both our students and staff as we continue to be proactive in supporting their mental health. 

Below are some resources that you might find helpful in dealing with our students and children:

As we support those within our Wilmette community and beyond, we continue to be vigilant. I want to reaffirm that, in partnership with Wilmette Police, we have systems in place for students and staff to anonymously report an incident if they see someone in need or something that does not feel right. Helping support and protect each other is something that we take extremely seriously and empower our community members to be proactive in these situations.

I am deeply saddened and heartbroken to be communicating about such a tragedy. Our thoughts are with our friends and neighbors in Highland Park and with all who have been impacted by this tragedy. Thank you all for your continued support and partnership as we work together to support the safety of our students, staff and community. I hope you have a safe remainder of your summer.

Your partner in education,

Dr. Kari Cremascoli, Ph.D.
Superintendent