ALEXANDRIA, Va., (May 7, 2019)—National PTA President Jim Accomando issued the following statement on the shooting at STEM School Highlands Ranch in Highlands Ranch, Colo.:

“National PTA is deeply saddened to hear of the shooting this afternoon at STEM School Highlands Ranch.

“There have been far too many shootings at schools. We must immediately redouble our nation’s efforts to make meaningful change. Every child deserves to learn in an environment that is safe and to have the opportunity to grow into a happy and healthy adult. We all know more needs to be done to keep our children safe, and we must work together to continually demand action.

“National PTA believes any effort to address school safety must involve all stakeholders—especially students, parents and families—who should consider a variety of factors, including the physical and psychological safety of students. Our association promotes the establishment of and support for school safety policies and procedures that emphasize family engagement, adequate funding for and access to student support services and personnel, and conditions that create and foster positive and welcoming school environments. We also promote the implementation of evidence-based policies and best practices articulated in A Framework for Safe and Successful Schools, which was written and has been endorsed by the nation’s leading education stakeholders and practitioners.

“Additionally, National PTA urges Congress to adopt legislation that would strengthen background checks, fund gun violence research efforts, ban assault weapons and prevent persons who may endanger public safety from accessing guns. Our association also urges policymakers to prioritize mental health education, early intervention, prevention and access to school and community-based mental health personnel and services.

“It has been and remains a top priority of National PTA to prevent and eliminate violence in schools, communities and at home; promote safety for children; make sure the needs of the whole child are met and ensure every child reaches their full potential. National PTA has a strong history of supporting and advocating for policies in the areas of gun safety and violence prevention, juvenile justice, mental health and students’ overall well-being.

“National PTA is also committed to supporting students, families, schools and communities in coping with and preventing violence and creating safe and supportive schools. The association offers a variety of resources that can be downloaded at PTA.org/SchoolSafety.”

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 family engagement 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. For more information, visit PTA.org.