Barrington Schools Prioritizing Student Support After Texas Shooting

BARRINGTON, RI — Barrington school officials said they are amping up school security and mental health resources for students in the aftermath of the latest American school shooting that claimed the lives of 19 students and two teachers in Texas on Tuesday.

Superintendent Michael Messore in a letter to the parents and students said the school community is "deeply saddened by the devastating tragedy at the Robb Elementary School in Uvalde, Texas."

"We recognize that media coverage of this tragedy can prompt fear and questions from families, students, and staff," Messore said. "Our highly trained mental health professionals are available throughout the district to assist any student or staff member who needs support."

Mental health services are available district wide, and resources can be found at the following links:

• Barrington High School
• Barrington Middle School
• Pre-K- Grade 5.

Messore said the American Psychological Association also offered these tips for speaking to children about school shootings.

Messore said the district will also amp up its security and training to help keep students safe.

"As a school district and as a community, we are more vigilant than ever in ensuring the safety of all students and adults in our schools," Messore said. "We have provided training to all of our schools in emergency preparedness. We will continue to work closely with our partners in law enforcement to review and strengthen our security measures and protocols. Our top priority is ensuring that our schools remain a safe and supportive learning environment."

Tuesday's shooting is the deadliest at a U.S. elementary school since the Sandy Hook massacre in 2012. President Biden ordered the American flag be flown at half-staff on all government and military buildings until sunset Saturday.