Dear Parents and Guardians:

The safety of our students is our number one priority. As always, we want to keep you informed
of important issues that may impact our students.

A Netflix series called 13 Reasons Why has sparked a national conversation about teen
suicide. The 13-part series tells the fictional story of a teenager who takes her own life. In the
series, the girl leaves behind 13 recordings that explain the reasons for her choice to commit
suicide.

While the show brings up the importance of talking about suicidal thoughts, it also portrays
situations in which young people are dealing with serious issues ranging from bullying to sexual
assault.

A statement from the National Association of School Psychologists said, "We do not recommend
that vulnerable youth, especially those who have any degree of suicidal ideation, watch this
series. Its powerful storytelling may lead impressionable viewers to romanticize the choices
made by the characters and/or develop revenge fantasies.

You may wish to discuss the 13 Reasons Why series with your child, in case they have seen it
or heard about it. Remind your student to tell an adult, such as a parent, teacher or school
counselor, if they know of someone who is expressing thoughts about hurting themselves. If you
or someone you know is in a life-threatening situation, please call 911 immediately. Also be
aware of the following resources that are available to assist you:

The National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: 800-273-8255

Say No To Bullying website: http://www.ccsd.net/students/bully/

Additionally, all Clark County School District psychologists, counselors, social workers and
school nurses have been trained in suicide intervention protocol so that we can immediately
assistance any student in crisis.

We are committed to the safety and welfare of our students. If you have any questions, please
do not hesitate to call your childs school.

Sincerely,

Robert C. Weires Kathy L. Mead

Director I Director of Guidance and Counseling
Psychological Services