I first heard about today’s unthinkable tragedy in Newtown Conn while scanning twitter and thinking I saw a tweet referencing Newton.   It could have happened here, of course. This could have happened anywhere.

Here’s a quote from a Newtown father:

‘‘It’s alarming, especially in Newtown, Connecticut, which we always thought was the safest place in America.”

And here’s the message Newton School Superintendent David Fleishman sent to parents today

This is David Fleishman, Superintendent of Schools in Newton. I am sure many of you are already aware of the school shooting that took place today in Newtown, CT. I am calling to let you know that we are keeping your children safe at school and that we will have regular dismissal today.

Inevitably, many of your children will want to discuss this very upsetting event over the weekend and we encourage you to speak with them about this in ways that are comfortable for your family and developmentally appropriate. On Monday our faculty and staff will be available to provide support as needed.

Thank you very much and take care.