ASCD Statement on the Devastating School Shooting in Uvalde, Texas

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

May, 2022

ARLINGTON, VA—To the education community,

We at ASCD are heartbroken by the tragic events in Uvalde yesterday afternoon. It is difficult to comprehend such a senseless act of violence, and our hearts are with the parents, families, and children who are just beginning to navigate unimaginable grief.

Our schools are the cornerstone of strong communities and the foundation of our democracy. Every one of us knows what it feels like to be in a classroom, to pass between classes in the hallways, to talk with friends in the cafeteria. We know that American classrooms are supposed to be safe, and yesterday's events were a heinous violation of the fundamental right of children and teachers to feel and be safe in their schools.

In the days to come, there will be round-the-clock news coverage and public discussion. We will see, hear, and read the stories of lives lost and shattered far too soon. We will struggle to understand the incomprehensible, and we will grieve with the people of Uvalde. As an organization, we pledge to continue the important work of supporting educators as they foster learning communities where children can learn, thrive, and grow into the leaders who effect the long-term change we need to ensure that students are truly safe in their schools and classrooms.

—Sandy Husk, Interim CEO & Executive Director and Avis Williams, Board President

Selected Resources for Educators and School Leaders

Supporting Educators to Rise Stronger After a Traumatic Event: Administrators must be ready to reprioritize and address the effects of loss, grief, and change that educators experience.

Guiding Students and Families Through Grief: How can school staff help students process deep emotional stress and send them on the path of restoration and healing?

For School Leaders, a Time of Vigilance and Caring: A recent survey shows that gun violence has become one of principals' biggest concerns. But are we taking the right steps to ensure schools are safe?

How Schools Should Really Talk About Safety: Moving beyond gut reactions to tragedies toward a more comprehensive approach for safeguarding students.

Why Social Bonding Is a School-Safety Priority: In enhancing school security, school leaders should not overlook the importance of connection.

Can SEL Reduce School Violence?: A researcher says teaching empathy, problem solving, and self-control could lead to safer schools.

WEBINAR: Equipping Educators with Effective Violence Prevention and Crisis Response Strategies: School safety concerns have tragically been thrust to the forefront of a national discussion, but too much of the talk has been at schools and educators rather than with them.

About ASCD

ASCD is where educators come to learn about new instructional strategies, grow as individuals and thrive as professionals. We are the preeminent global leader of professional learning resources for all classroom teachers, instructional leaders, principals, and superintendents. For over 80 years, educators and instructional leaders have used ASCD’s educator-generated, evidence-based resources, digital tools, and solutions to build teaching and learning environments to elevate education and boost student achievement. Learn more at www.ascd.org.

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