Local students returned to classes Monday after Friday's elementary school shooting in Connecticut.

On Dec. 14, a 20-year-old man forced his way into a school in Newtown, Connecticut, and killed 20 children ages six and seven, and seven women before killing himself.

Langley School District offered its condolences to that community, and some advice to local families to help children deal with the tragedy.

Within the district, the response will vary depending on the ages of the students, but general advice has been sent to schools, and some for parents has been posted.

"Staff have been advised to refrain from sharing images or video footage of the incident with students, and we have recommended that any discussions be limited to a brief sharing of facts," according to information from district communications manager Sandy Wakeling.

The district has received additional information from the Ministry of Education about responding to trauma.

"Many of our school administrators have spent time debriefing on the incident and identifying which students and colleagues might require additional support," he said

Staff have also been asked to review emergency response procedures.

"Staff have been reminded to wear proper ID tags when visiting other schools, and to be vigilant in ensuring all visitors to their schools sign in and wear identification," Wakeling said.

The district has also posted on its website the recommendation that parents limit their child's exposure to footage of the incident and limit any discussions to the basic facts. Parents are also advised to watch their children for signs, including changes in behaviour and to report concerns to the school counsellor.

hcolpitts@langleyadvance.com