Social media changes how our kids process the Israel-Hamas war. Here's how to talk about it.

As the superintendent of Cincinnati Public Schools, I feel compelled to address the ongoing Israel-Hamas conflict, recognizing that international events can reverberate within our diverse community. The tensions in this region of the world originated well before the Oct. 7, 2023, attack. As an organization focused on educating students, I am most concerned with how our students handle seeing and hearing about death, hostages and devastation every day.

First and foremost, our thoughts are with all those affected by the conflict, both directly and indirectly. We understand that some members of our community have personal connections to the region, and we stand with you during these challenging times. I am in contact with both local Jewish and Muslim leaders and our biggest concerns for students, staff and families are rising antisemitism and Islamophobia-related behaviors and actions, hate crimes, racially motivated bullying and intolerance. We have common goals for peace, hostages to be returned to their families and an end to the deaths of innocent Israeli and Palestinian lives.

In times of global strife, it is essential for our school communities to maintain an environment of respect, understanding and empathy. Our schools are places of learning, and it is our duty to ensure that every student feels safe, supported and valued regardless of their background or beliefs. We encourage open dialogue and meaningful conversations among our students, staff and families about world events.

Kids form opinions about Israel, Palestine much faster

In terms of our children and young adults understanding the situation in Gaza, we must accept they will form their opinions at a much faster rate than many of us did as children and in a context that may not be age appropriate. Many of our students hear or see what is happening in Gaza through their social media feed supported by the 24-hour news cycle well before they speak with their parents or religious leaders. Below are a few resources that may help educators and families talk about this conflict with children.

Some students may choose to express themselves through protest and open discussions. My staff will do its best to allow these activities by students to take place as long as it is safe and not harmful to peers. It is through understanding different perspectives that we foster a culture of tolerance and inclusivity.

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Our focus is providing a safe and enriching educational environment for all students. We discourage the promotion of any particular political or religious agenda within the school setting. Our board policies embrace racial diversity and nondiscrimination among our students and staff. If you would like to learn more, please read our board policies here or visit cps-k12.org:

• CPS Board Policy 2255 - Equity and Excellence in Education: https://go.boarddocs.com/oh/cps/Board.nsf/goto?open&id=AGF5H91044AC

• CPS Board Policy 2256 - Anti-Racism Vision: https://go.boarddocs.com/oh/cps/Board.nsf/goto?open&id=BWQNTP6182B4

• CPS Board Policy 2260 - Nondiscrimination and Access to Equal Educational Opportunity: https://go.boarddocs.com/oh/cps/Board.nsf/goto?open&id=AGF5HA104528

As we navigate these challenging times, let us remain united as a community, respecting one another's perspectives and embracing the diversity that makes Cincinnati Public Schools so special. Our commitment to the well-being of our students and staff, and the strength of our community will guide us through these complex moments. If you or your child ever need additional support or resources to discuss these matters, please do not hesitate to reach out to our school leaders and social workers trained to provide support services. Thank you for your continued partnership in fostering a positive and inclusive learning environment.

Iranetta Wright is superintendent of Cincinnati Public Schools.

This article originally appeared on Cincinnati Enquirer: How do you talk to kids about Israel, Palestine? Start by listening