Schools are supposed to be sanctuaries.
A place to learn.
A place to belong.
A place to play.
A place to explore.
A place to grow.
Schools are supposed to be safe.
But our children's memories of school are laced with active shooter drills where they prepare for the horror and the unthinkable, not fully aware of how cruel and commonplace gun violence is across the nation. Teachers and educators harden their shells and fill their brains with scenarios for how to save lives as those realities edge out lesson plans intended to nurture curiosity. Families and loved ones' lives shatter in devastating grief and loss while others hold them and dread if they might be the ones that will be held next.
We mourn and grieve with the families and community of Uvalde, Texas.
Resources
- Disaster Distress Hotline
- U.S. Department of Health & Human Services: Coping with Grief after a Disaster or Traumatic Event
- National Education Association's School Crisis Guide
- AAP: Talking to Children about Tragedies & Other News Events
- PBS: Helping Children with Tragic Events in the News
- Everytown for Gun Safety
- Coalition to Support Grieving Students
