Metuchen Schools Share Resources In Wake Of Capitol Riots

METUCHEN, NJ — Metuchen School superintendent Vincent Caputo acknowledged the events that unfolded at the U.S. Capitol, and shared resources to help students deal with trauma and fear.

"The images we saw out of Washington DC... may have been disturbing for our students (and adults). We are here to support you and your children,” Caputo said in a message to the school community.

He provided parents with a list of resources to help them guide discussions at home.

Here is the list of resources:

• Teaching Tolerance: When Bad Things Are Happening
• Presidential Disability and Succession
• Freedom of Religion, Speech, Press, Assembly, and Petition
• US House of Representatives/Impeachment
• National Archives/Electoral College

Caputo said that like many people, he’s visited Washington DC and toured the White House, museums and taken pictures. He called Wednesday “a rough day in American history.”

“And still, we saw democracy in action. Georgia held runoff elections to determine the control of the Senate. Congress certified the Electoral College results in preparation the President-Elect Biden’s inauguration on Jan.20,” he said.

Caputo pointed out that school superintendents “have been thrust into a new reality.”

“You probably shouldn’t need to get political and government updates from me, but just as it has been with sharing accurate information about COVID-19, it’s my responsibility to inform our community of events, especially those that will have traumatic effects on staff and students,” he said.

"Educators will educate. Counselors will counsel. That’s what we do. We are here for you today, tomorrow, and every day.”

Pro-Trump rioters stormed the U.S Capitol on Wednesday, trying to prevent the Electoral College certification of Joe Biden as the next president.

The riot produced stunning images of chaos and mayhem that left four people dead.

Thank you for reading. Have a correction or news tip? Email sarah.salvadore@patch.com

Get breaking news alerts on your phone with our app. Download here. Sign up to get Patch emails so you don't miss out on local and statewide news.