Statement from the Presidents of the NEA and MEA on Oxford High School Shooting

The following statement can be attributed to MEA President Paula Herbart and NEA President Becky Pringle on the school shooting today in Oxford:

“News of the shooting today at Oxford High School was horrifying for us both educators and as parents. School should be a safe place for students and employees alike – but today that safety was shattered by gunshots.

“Our hearts go out to the victims and their families, as well as all the Oxford students and educators who’ll carry today with them for the rest of their lives.

“We also want to thank the dedicated first responders whose swift action was essential, especially the school resource officer who apprehended the shooter and kept more innocent lives from being lost.

“MEA and NEA are committed to working with our local members and the school district to ensure that students and employees get the emotional and physical support they need to begin recovering from this tragedy.

“Further, we remain committed to ending violence in our schools.  One event like this is too many – and this is not the first time the unthinkable has happened.  Addressing the mental health needs of our students and the physical safety of everyone in our schools is not a partisan issue and must be something we work together to achieve.  Each of today’s victims – and every student, parent, educator and first responder – deserves that commitment from us all.”