Monday, December 16, 2024
We are horrified, angered and deeply saddened by the news of a shooting at Abundant Life Christian School. We know there are many Goodman Community Center families and participants with ties to that community and we extend our deepest sympathy and support to them and everyone affected. As parents and grandparents, as teachers, as youth mentors and as members of the East Side community, this tragedy touches us deeply.
Our child care and youth services teams have been in close communication with law enforcement and there is no threat to our programs or center. However, we anticipate an increased law enforcement presence around schools and other facilities for children and youth in our area, including Goodman Community Center.
Schools and places where children play should be spaces free from violence. Even one death of a student, teacher, staff member or anyone else at a school is a horror — it is unacceptable that violence at schools has become commonplace. We strongly support efforts to curb the proliferation of guns, to require safe gun ownership, and to make mental health and crisis support free and easily accessible to all.
For those families helping children and youth cope with a tragedy that feels far too close to home, we suggest consulting the guidance provided by National Association of School Psychologists.
If you or someone else is experiencing a crisis, the National Alliance of Mental Illness–Wisconsin has a listing of hotlines and resources.
Please take care of each other and act to curb violence in our society. Our children are counting on us.