National PTA President Anna King and Minnesota PTA President Amy Nelson issued the following statement on the shooting at the South Education Center in Richfield, Minn.:
“Our hearts go out to the families, students, teachers and staff at South Education Center and to the community of Richfield. As parents and grandparents, we cannot imagine how horrifying yesterday was. School should be a safe place, and we should not have to fear sending our children to school.
“There have been at least six incidents of gunfire on school grounds already this year, and yesterday we began a new month with another school shooting. We must immediately take action to protect our students, families and educators, and we must work together to help children channel their anger and resolve problems in a positive and productive manner. We cannot let another such incident occur or have our children and families experience gun violence in their school community again.
“National PTA, Minnesota PTA and PTAs nationwide remain committed to urging Congress to address the severe gun and school safety issues we continue to face as a country. Our association also stands firm in our commitment to support the well-being of those impacted by such incidents as they recover. For those in need of mental health support during this time, visit PTA.org/HealthyMinds for free resources.”