Twin Cities Schools Start Year Under Heavy Police Presence After Annunciation Shooting

SAINT PAUL, MN — Saint Paul police began patrolling schools Tuesday on the first day of classes after the Annunciation Catholic Church and School shooting in Minneapolis last week.

The department announced Monday that every public and private school in the Saint Paul School District was offered the added security presence, and each could decide whether to accept.

Where accepted, uniformed officers, marked squad cars, and members of the Saint Paul Fire Department will be visible from Tuesday, Sept. 2, through Friday, Sept. 5.

Police called the Annunciation shooting "the unthinkable act of violence" and said the temporary school security effort is meant to bolster a sense of safety and security for families shaken by the attack.

"It’s an honor to serve the City of Saint Paul – a community who never ceases to show us your support," the department said in a statement. “Now it’s our time to do what we can to support our students, their families, and educators during this difficult time.”

The Saint Paul initiative comes as Gov. Tim Walz deploys state law enforcement officers to Minneapolis schools and churches.

Fourteen Minnesota State Patrol troopers and six Department of Natural Resources conservation officers began patrolling Minneapolis precincts last Thursday, with a focus on schools and places of worship. The Bureau of Criminal Apprehension is also assisting Minneapolis police with the investigation into the shooting.

Meanwhile, private schools and Catholic churches across the metro are also tightening security protocols. Many parishes and school leaders are reviewing building access, adjusting visitor policies, and working with local law enforcement to ensure safety at Masses and during the school day.

The Twin Cities’ first day of school was defined by an unprecedented security presence as state, local, and church leaders responded to the Annunciation tragedy.