ALEXANDRIA, Va. (Dec. 12, 2014) — The following statement can be attributed to National PTA President Otha Thornton:

“National PTA is deeply saddened to hear of the shooting this afternoon near Rosemary Anderson High School in Portland, Ore. The association extends its deepest sympathies to the students, families, teachers and administrators impacted.

“While the facts are still being gathered, any act of violence at a school or involving youth is intolerable. This is the second shooting involving students in the Portland area this year. As acts of violence have increased in and around schools nationwide, the protection of students is of utmost importance. 

“It is critical that parents, teachers, administrators, community leaders and elected officials work together to make meaningful changes and find the most effective ways to ensure that all children have a safe environment in which to thrive and learn. It has been, and remains, a top priority of National PTA to prevent and eliminate violence in schools, to promote safety for children and improve education.

“National PTA monitors, supports and advocates for laws and programs at all levels in the areas of safety, juvenile justice and violence prevention. The association has a strong history of advocating for the safety of children in schools and is committed to supporting students, families, schools and PTAs in coping with and preventing violence.

“National PTA offers a variety of resources that can be downloaded at PTA.org/SchoolViolence to assist in coping with violence and helping to ensure a safe learning environment for all children.”

About National PTA

National PTA® comprises millions of families, students, teachers, administrators, and business and community leaders devoted to the educational success of children and the promotion of parent involvement in schools. PTA is a registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit association that prides itself on being a powerful voice for all children, a relevant resource for families and communities, and a strong advocate for public education. Membership in PTA is open to anyone who wants to be involved and make a difference for the education, health, and welfare of children and youth.