Greetings Muscatine School District Parents,

It has come to our attention that many of our middle school and high school students are watching a new Netflix series called 13 Reasons Why. Based on the book by Jay Asher, the show portrays serious themes, including drug use, sexual assault, and suicide. Even if your child is not watching the show, they may be hearing about it from their peers. Counselors and administrators are addressing concerns as they are brought to our attention. We take every report we receive seriously.
We would like to ask you to partner with us to help students in need. You can make a world of difference by following these three simple steps:
1) Know the warning signs:

• Suddenly deteriorating school performance
• Changes in school attendance
• Talking about suicide and making suicide threats
• Loss of interest in things they use to enjoy doing
• An unusual interest in death or dying
• Taking unnecessary risks
• Feelings of hopelessness
• Depression
• Change in friendships or withdrawing from friends and social activities
• Mood swings or personality changes
• Changes in eating and sleeping habits
• Giving away prized possessions

2) Talk to your child:

• Let your child know you care
• Do not be afraid to ask your child if they have or are thinking about suicide

3) Seek help:

• If it is an emergency, call 911
• Contact your child’s pediatrician or doctor
• Contact a local mental health provider
• Notify your child’s administrator and guidance counselor

We care deeply about the well-being of all our students and we know that you care about the well-being of your child as well. By working together, we can make a difference for all students in Muscatine. Please do not hesitate to reach out to your child’s school counselor for help.

Thank for your support.

Muscatine School District Administration