San Jose

Santa Clara County Educators Urge Conversations in Wake of Kavanaugh Allegations

The allegations against Supreme Court nominee Brett Kavanaugh are sparking all sorts of conversations, especially with parents of high schoolers.

Recognizing the issue, Santa Clara County education leaders sent a letter to all 31 superintendents, urging them to lead conversations and "create a culture of open dialogue within our schools and communities about safe and healthy relationships, proper conduct, investigations and reporting structures."

County Superintendent Mary Ann Dewan issued the letter Monday.

"We though it would be important to raise some awareness and work with our school districts to make sure they are ready to help any child and family feel safe in our schools and in our community," Dewan said.

It's an effort parents seem to agree with. One mother thinks kids in this day of the #MeToo movement are more open to discuss tough topics.

"The more we talk about it, the more it's easier to talk about, and I think the more people have courage to come forward," parent Kristin Burckhard, of San Jose, said. "I think they also need to know it's getting better. And with their generation, it'll get even better. The more we talk about it and the more discussions are had, the more likely that's going to happen."

Jaspreet Dhakala, another parent, feels kids should know "basically how to deal with that if they see it or if they see it happen and how to express your feelings."

Contact Us