'I Am Angry': Richfield Superintendent Reacts To Texas School Shooting

RICHFIELD, MN— Parents, children, teachers, and other staff in the Richfield Public Schools community are 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.

"Today, I watched the news unfold about the heartbreaking mass shooting at Robb Elementary School in Texas.

"As I read the headlines and processed the information, I felt a lot of things; grief, loss, disbelief, deep sadness and anger," wrote Superintendent Steven Unowsky.

"I am angry that since the mass shooting at Columbine High School in 1999, more than 300,000 students have experienced gun violence at school. I am sad that governments across the country can pass laws restricting the rights of transgender youth or punish teachers for talking about race but they can’t pass gun regulations to help keep children safe. I am frustrated that billions of dollars are spent on other priorities but we don’t have fully funded schools, adequate mental health services or free meals for students."

Read the entire 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