From a May 24 email from PUSD Superintendent Randy Booker to the school community:
I am deeply saddened to write to you following another horrific school shooting. There are no words to properly convey the senseless and evil actions today at Robb Elementary School in Uvalde, Texas. Please join me in sending your thoughts and condolences to the victims and their families.
The ongoing media coverage of this tragedy may prompt questions and concerns from your children regarding the incident and their safety at school. For help with these conversations, please visit this online resource: Talking to Children About Violence: Tips for Parents and Teachers. We also encourage you to talk with your school’s teachers, counselors, support staff, or administrators if you need additional support, or see any signs of distress or concerning behavior from your child.
The safety and well-being of our students and staff remain our top priority. We are fortunate to partner with the Piedmont Police Department to provide training in our schools to educate staff and students in responding to an active shooter or other internal threat. I would also ask your help in reminding students of the importance that if they “see something,” to “say something.” Our high school Speak Up! and middle school See Something, Say Something Scots online reporting tools allow students, parents, staff and community members to report concerns anonymously.
This event also serves as a tragic reminder of the ongoing problem of gun violence in our country. At its April 27th meeting, the PUSD Board of Education heard a presentation from local representatives of Brady United Against Gun Violence, and its mission to reduce gun violence in the United States by 25% in the next three years. I encourage you to watch the presentation (starting at the 35:55 mark) and learn more at www.bradyunited.org. We look forward to working with Brady United and the Piedmont Police Department on a future partnership.
Our counselors, Wellness Center staff, teachers and administrators are available to your family and student(s). Please do not hesitate to reach out if you require any assistance.