Noelle Motley, Marketing Communications Manager
ALEXANDRIA, Va., (Sept. 22, 2021)—National PTA President Anna King and Kentucky PTA President Kathy Smiley issued the following statement on the school bus stop shooting in Louisville, Ky.:
“No child should ever experience any form of violence, especially while waiting at the school bus stop. National PTA is devastated and heartbroken by the tragic loss of life of one student and the injuries sustained by two Eastern High School students this morning. Our hearts are with the students, their families, and the entire school community.
“This is the second school shooting this week. PTAs, families, educators, community leaders, school administrators and elected officials must continue to advocate for gun safety and violence prevention in all school communities. National PTA is dedicated to improving school safety and providing students and their caregivers the resources they need to cope with these devastating acts of violence. The association’s top priority is to provide Kentucky State PTA and all PTAs the support they need to navigate the impacts of gun violence.
“National PTA is also committed to prioritizing and protecting the mental health of students—before, during and after a crisis arises. We have developed and deployed educational programs and services designed to help address mental health topics such as grief and loss. Learn more at PTA.org/HealthyMinds.
“National PTA urges Congress to adopt legislation that strengthens background checks, funds research on gun violence prevention and encourages a gun-free environment for all children—at home and in school.”
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.
About Kentucky PTA
Kentucky PTA was chartered in 1918 as a state affiliate of the National PTA and celebrated its 100th anniversary in 2018. Kentucky PTA is a non-profit, tax exempt, 501(c)(3) charitable association registered with the Internal Revenue Service as an education organization.