A Message from BPUSD Regarding Community Unrest

Dear Baldwin Park Community:
 
This past weekend was challenging for all of us. Our televisions and mobile devices were filled with images that created a range of emotions. As adults, we understand that these issues are complicated; our communities are struggling to sort out complex thoughts and diverse opinions surrounding race relations, freedom of speech, community policing, and questions about what comes next.
 
However, we also are keenly aware that these images and these discussions are happening in front of our children, who may have difficulty coping with the complexities of these issues.
 
As parents and as educators, we are extremely mindful of how stressful times can impact our children’s day-to-day activities, as well as manifest in their long-term view of the world.   
 
To that end, I want all our parents to know that we are here to provide support. Below are some tips for talking to your children about current events, circulated by the Los Angeles County Office of Education. 

• Reassure them that they are safe
• Listen with your full attention
• Inform through age-appropriate conversations
• Acknowledge feelings
• Watch for signs of distress
• Model self-care 

Baldwin Park Unified partners with a number of local agencies that can provide online, virtual or phone-based services to ensure we all have the right words to explain current events to our children, while also having an outlet for our anxiety.  

• The Center for Integrated Family and Health Services provides telephone and telehealth (video conferencing) mental health services. Please call 626-967-5103 to request a therapist. 
• The CA Peer-Run Warm Line is staffed 24/7 by peers with specialized training in supporting mental health challenges. The toll-free service can be reached at 855-845-7415. Web chat is available. 
• Care Solace services are available at no cost to students, families and staff. A search algorithm matches individuals with mental health care resources within seconds. Care Solace generates referrals that take into account insurance policies, including private insurance, Medi-Cal, Medicaid and Medicare. For those who are uninsured, Care Solace also identifies local care providers that allow individuals to pay out-of-pocket for services. The site does not require a username, home address, phone number or date of birth.
• Additional school-based mental health agencies include:
  • Children's Bureau -- 626-337-8811
  • Foothill Family Services -- 626-993-3000 
  • Hillsides -- 626-373-2900
  • Kaiser Permanente Educational Outreach Program (EOP) -- 626-814-6408