A Message to Our CommunityFinding Lessons in the Aftermath of Hurricane KatrinaSeptember 2005

The magnitude of Hurricane Katrina's destruction of life, environment, and community is overwhelming. It is difficult to comprehend the struggles facing survivors.

The impact of the disaster is being felt across the country and in our own neighborhoods. Hurricane survivors are coming to California, some students are starting to enroll in local schools and efforts to collect donations are going strong.

In the aftermath of this catastrophic event, parents can help their children find positive lessons on three different levels: personal, social and educational.

On a personal level, communication is the key. Parents should talk to their children about what they are thinking about the hurricane and the destruction left in its wake. Children should be allowed to express their feelings not only through talking but also through drawing or writing.

The American Psychological Association has more information about how to take care of children’s needs in these traumatic times.

Parents can also talk to their children about how to prepare for any disaster, such as a fire, earthquake or flood. Discussing preparedness can help ease fears about feeling vulnerable. For more information about disaster preparedness, visit the American Red Cross Web site and click on the words “Get Prepared.”

On a social level, parents can help children learn about the value of volunteering, sharing and donating to charities that are assisting survivors. Giving back to the community and those in need can enrich children’s lives by helping them learn to appreciate what they have and possibly discover skills they didn’t know they had.

Among the charities involved in the relief effort is America's Second Harvest, a nationwide food bank. One hundred percent of donations collected will be directly used to support disaster-relief activities. America’s Second Harvest can be reached at 800-344-8070.

On an educational level, parents can teach children about weather, global warming and what makes a hurricane occur. For more information about the science of hurricanes, visit these Web sites:Education WorldMiami Museeum of ScienceNational Hurricane Center

Sheila Jordan is the County Superintendent of Schools. She may be reached at 670-4144 or by e-mail at acoesuperintendent@acoe.org.