My heart goes out to the families, students, staff, and community members affected by this devastating loss.

There are no words that can ease the pain of those grieving today. But in moments like these, we can choose how we respond—with compassion, with care, and with a commitment to supporting one another.

If you're reading this because you're hurting, scared, or searching for ways to help, please know: you are not alone.

🕯️ For Those Directly Affected

If You Are a Student, Parent, or Staff Member:

✨ Your feelings are valid: Shock, anger, sadness, numbness—grief has no "right" way to look.
✨ Reach out for support: Trauma counselors, school psychologists, and crisis hotlines are there for you. You don't have to carry this alone.
✨ Limit media exposure: Constant news updates can retraumatize. It's okay to step away and protect your peace.
✨ Lean on community: Connect with trusted friends, family, faith leaders, or support groups. Shared grief can feel less isolating.

Crisis Resources (U.S.):

988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline: Call or text 988
Crisis Text Line: Text HOME to 741741
National Child Traumatic Stress Network: nctsn.org
Sandy Hook Promise: sandyhookpromise.org – Resources for healing and prevention

🤝 For Those Who Want to Help

✅ Do:

Donate to verified funds: Wait for official channels (school district, United Way, community foundations) to establish relief funds before giving.
Offer practical support: Meals, childcare, transportation, or a listening ear can mean everything to grieving families.
Respect privacy: Avoid sharing names, photos, or details about victims until families have been notified and consent to sharing.
Support local businesses: Communities recovering from trauma often face economic ripple effects.
Check on others: A simple "How are you really?" can open a door for someone who needs to talk.

❌ Avoid:

Spreading unconfirmed information: Rumors cause real harm. Share only from official sources (law enforcement, school district, trusted news).
Graphic content: Sharing images or videos from the scene retraumatizes victims and families.
Speculating about motives or details: Investigations take time. Let professionals do their work.
Performative activism: Center the needs of the affected community, not your own voice.