NEA President on tragic shooting at Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School

Washington, DC - At least 17 students and educators reportedly were killed after a gunman opened fire both inside and outside Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School in Parkland, Florida, according to officials.

The following statement can be attributed to NEA President Lily Eskelsen García:

"Our hearts are broken yet again by the senseless and tragic shooting in our nation's public schools, this time in Parkland, Florida. We are monitoring closely the still developing and tense situation, but we have confidence in the ability of the first responders and the school staff and administrators to help students and families at this time. While our thoughts and prayers are with Marjory Stoneman Douglas students, educators and their families, we know that we, as a country, need to do more to end these senseless shootings.

"As educators, our foremost priority is to ensure the safety and well-being of all of our students. Our focus now is on supporting the educators, students and their families in the Broward County community today and in the future. We all have a responsibility to create safe schools and communities. As a state and a country, we can and must do more to ensure that everyone who walks through our school doors - educator, student, parent or community member - is safe and free from violence."