May 21, 2007

Dear Parents,

The Archdiocese of Los Angeles is committed to compliance with the US Bishops’ Charter for the Protection of Children and Young People. Article 12 of the Charter mandates that each diocese "maintain safe environment programs…conducted cooperatively with parents, civil authorities, educators and community organizations to provide education and training for children, youth, parents, ministers, educators, volunteers, and others about way to make and maintain a safe environment for children and young people." In light of this, the Archdiocese of Los Angeles is providing a Self-Protection Program for Children and Youth.

The children in Sacred Heart School will participate in these lessons during the week of May 28, 2007. To provide an opportunity for parents and guardians to review the program, I have included copies of the lessons that will be taught at the various grade levels for your review. There are two forms included with this letter. One form allows us permission to instruct your child as detailed in the attached lessons. The other form is an "Opt Out" form which you should only complete if you DO NOT want your child to participate. YOU MUST RETURN ONE FORM OR THE OTHER. Any student without either form will automatically be excluded from the lesson when it is given.

Please be advised that there are several important phone numbers that you need to be aware of with regards to ensuring the safety of our children. This information is available at http://www.archdiocese.la/protecting/bulletin.html and at http://www.the-tidings.com/2006/0203/Safeguard.htm. For your convenience, these links are also available on our website at www.shs.cc.

Please complete and return one of the enclosed permission forms immediately. I appreciate your support and prompt response to this critical issue in keeping our kids safe!

Sincerely,

Mrs. April M. Luchonok

Principal