NPS Reacts To Uvalde School Shooting

NORTHFIELD, MN — Matt Hillmann, superintendent of Northfield Public Schools, posted a statement reacting to the deadly mass shooting Tuesday at a Texas elementary school.

The Texas Department of Public Safety has confirmed to multiple outlets, including The New York Times, that 19 children and two adults were killed at Robb Elementary School in Uvalde.

The gunman was also killed in the shooting.

"I write to you today to acknowledge yesterday’s mass shooting at an elementary school in Uvalde, Texas, with deep sadness and anger over this senseless murder of children," Hillmann wrote on the district's website. "It is impossible to make sense of such a senseless act, but we try to do so as human beings. Our hearts are with the families in Uvalde as they grieve following this horrific event."

The district also linked to the following resources:

• Talking with children about violence
• Talking with children about violence (infographic)

School counselors and social workers will be available to Northfield students who need additional assistance.

"Student safety is our top priority," Hillmann wrote. "We will continue to take steps to keep our schools as safe as practicable. Please don’t hesitate to contact your school principal or me if you have any questions or concerns."

View Northfield Public School's full statement here.

Other Minnesota officials and lawmakers reacted to the mass shooting in Uvalde.

"Beyond heartbroken over the horrific tragedy at Robb Elementary School in Texas," Democrat Sen. Amy Klobuchar said. "It has been nearly a decade since Sandy Hook and gun safety legislation has been repeatedly blocked. Unconscionable."

"Jacquie and I are absolutely heartbroken to hear about the tragedy unfolding in Uvalde," wrote Republican Rep. Tom Emmer. "Praying for the entire Robb Elementary community and the families of those lost in today's senseless act of violence."

"I am watching the news coming out of Texas in horror," wrote Democrat Gov. Tim Walz. "This cannot continue. Minnesota grieves with the parents and families of every child who was shot and killed in Uvalde today."

"Horrific news. No words," said Democrat Sen. Tina Smith. "The blockade of gun safety bills has caused an untold number of unnecessary deaths in this country."

Read more: Texas School Shooting: 19 Children Killed In Uvalde