Dear Wootton High School Families,

As we conclude our first day following Monday's traumatic events, we want to explain why being together at school today mattered. 

In moments like this, connection is an essential part of healing and accessing necessary supports. Additionally, today was not about academics or resuming “normal” routines—it was about ensuring that students and staff were surrounded by helpful adults, mental health professionals, and peers, rather than processing a distressing event in isolation or through social media without support. 

From the start of the day, counselors, social workers, psychologists, administrators, and central office staff were present and available to listen, support, and meet students and staff where they were emotionally. Some needed a conversation; others needed a routine, and all responses were respected. Mental health supports will remain available not just this week, but in the days, weeks, and months ahead. Trauma does not follow a predictable timeline, and reactions can change or resurface over time. Our commitment is to have key supportive people present and responsive for as long as that support is needed. 

As school and district leaders, we need to share our deep gratitude for our teachers and staff. Candidly, our teachers and staff were amazing today. Many came to school today carrying their own emotions and concerns; in fact, some began to share them at an early-morning staff meeting. Despite this, they showed up for students. Their willingness to prioritize student well-being during such a difficult time speaks volumes about who they are and the strength of this community. 

There was indeed a high absence rate at school today. This is completely understandable, but we want our students back; they are part of our community. Excused absences will be honored for one more day (Wednesday) because we know that every student’s needs are different, and processing yesterday’s events will be different for everyone.

Are we safe here at Wootton? Yes, and here is why.

Over the coming days, we will have increased police and school security presence. Today, an already scheduled installation of additional security cameras and electronic door locks was begun. More importantly, we at Wootton High School are here and present to keep us all safe.

While at home, we continue to encourage families to talk with their children about the value of staying connected to supportive adults and peers, whether at school or at home, particularly during moments like this. We’ve included helpful resources for those conversations at the end of this letter.

We held two family information sessions today, during which we heard from Rockville Police reviewed their response on Monday and also spoke about the ongoing investigation. MCPS Student and Staff support experts spoke to their work today and the services provided, from the beginning of the day to the end of the day. Again these staff will be back on Wednesday to continue their work in support of students and staff. 

Sincerely,

Thomas W. Taylor, Ed.D., M.B.A.
Superintendent of Schools

Dr. Joseph Bostic
Principal
Thomas S. Wootton High School

Resources for Families
Talking to Children About Violence
English / español / 中文 / français / Português / 한국어 / tiếng Việt / አማርኛ

Social Media Guidance and Cautions Following Crisis
English / español / 中文 / français / Português / 한국어 / tiếng Việt / አማርኛ

See the Family Information Meeting Presentation Slide Deck with important mental health support information

Students wishing to discreetly request counseling or mental health supports can use this QR code to request that support.