Editor's Note: All Sandy Hook Elementary School shooting resources are now available at PTA.org/sandyhook.

ALEXANDRIA, VA. (December 14, 2012)—The following statement can be attributed to National PTA® President Betsy Landers:

National PTA feels enormous sympathy for the students, families and communities affected by the horrendous tragedy at Sandy Hook Elementary School in Newtown, Conn., today.  Our country has experienced far too many of these tragedies, and we all share in the sense of loss and hurt.

School and child safety is one of PTA’s core tenets as it is crucial to effective learning. A traumatic event like that of this morning affects the entire community, especially the families and friends of the victims. This can be an emotional time, and it’s important for people affected by this tragedy to connect with and support each other.

National PTA has many resources to assist students, families, schools and PTAs in coping with school violence. The resources are downloadable at PTA.org/SchoolViolence.

National PTA believes the protection of children in all school settings is a fundamental right and has made this the utmost priority for our work and advocacy.

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.