Natick Schools To Have Police Presence Wednesday After Texas Tragedy

NATICK, MA - In response to the elementary school shooting where 18 children were killed in Texas Tuesday, Natick school Superintendent released a statement Tuesday night after the district's annual "Transfer of Flags" ceremony, where she coordinated support efforts for Wednesday morning with the police and fire departments.

"As you may have seen, a horrific tragedy took place today in Uvalde, Texas," Nolin said in the statement. "We know that events like what happened today at Robb Elementary School are not only tragic and painful, but they can often lead to anxiety and fear felt by our entire school community.

"Tonight at Transfer of Flags, our Natick Police and Fire Department colleagues joined us in wanting to create a smooth and reassuring morning for all of our schools," she continued. "To that end, we will have an increased presence at our schools tomorrow morning - giving high-fives and check-ins."

Police and principals will be present at each school at the start of the school day "in a show of support and to offer a friendly face to our students as they arrive. "

They will also attend the unified track events Wednesday afternoon at Natick High School to provide an extra sense of security, Nolin said.

Nolin added that support services will be available for students and staff as the cope with this tragedy, one of three shootings that garnered national attention in less than one week's time.

"Each day, we pride ourselves on our routine and practiced safety routines designed to protect our communities," she said. "Sign ins, adult presence, check-ins with young people, controlled traffic, and building entries all contribute to our campus safety."

An overview of safety and security practices and resources is available on the department website. There are mental health services available on the website as well as through all school counselors.

"Our hearts are with Robb Elementary’s educators, students, and families, as well as the entire Uvalde community during this time.," Nolin said. "Remember, the best way to deter violence in our community is to make connections and ensure all people feel connected and accepted within Natick, just as we did tonight with our Transfer of Flags ceremony. We remain deeply committed to this work and your students."

Nolin also released a statement last Monday condemning recent racially motivated attacks, including the shooting at a Buffalo supermarket last weekend.

The annual "Transfer of Flags" ceremony was instituted by the Natick American Legion in 1924.Student standard bearers who demonstrate responsibility and patriotism are elected from each school by students and staff. They speak at the ceremony about the honor of caring for the flag as well as raising and lowering it before they pass it to the next standard bearer. This was the first time since the pandemic began that the ceremony was held in person, as the past two years have been video tributes.