In Wake of Sandy Hook Elementary School Shooting, Ames Schools Release Statement

A day after a gunman killed 26 people (and himself) at the Sandy Hook Elementary School in Connecticut, the Ames Community School District released a statement about school safety.

The statement follows below:

In light of the tragedy at Sandy Hook Elementary School in Connecticut, the Ames Community School District administration is deeply saddened by the senseless loss of lives.

We also believe this is an opportune time to remind our school families and community that we reflect on the safety in our schools to ensure that we do everything we can to keep our students safe. Those efforts include screening every volunteer, student teacher, etc., in our classrooms; reviewing safety-related policies; and working with local and county authorities to address various safety procedures in each of our schools as each has its own unique needs.

Additionally, we are thankful that our community has provided the opportunity to update our elementary schools. These updates and new construction will provide safety features including one-step lockdowns of exterior doors, and single-entry, to ensure office staff screen all school visitors once the school day has started.

We encourage parents to talk to their children about the Connecticut tragedy, but assure them that schools are generally safe places where we work hard to ensure their safety. In addition, school counselors are available should your child wish to talk with them.