With renewed national media coverage and the recent release of 911 recordings from the Newtown, Conn., school shooting, the Hermiston School District reflects back on December 2012, tragedies.
On Dec. 14, 2012, the tragic shooting at Sandy Hook Elementary School in Newtown, Conn., occurred. On that day, 20 elementary students and six school employees were shot and lost their lives in an act of violence that played out on television screens across our country. The incident was the second deadliest shooting by a single person in U.S. history, behind the 2007 Virginia Tech shootings. The release of the 911 recordings has once again brought to the surface the pain and hurt we felt last December.
Additionally, we are approaching the anniversary of a tragedy closer to home. On Dec. 11, 2012, an individual opened fire at Clackamas Town Center Mall, killing two and seriously injuring another. The gunman, armed with an AR-15 rifle, accosted holiday shoppers and then committed suicide. With no found connection to any of the victims, this tragedy is believed to be a random act of violence.
“These extraordinary tragedies, which hit so close to home, may cause much pain and grief,” said Superintendent of Schools Dr. Fred Maiocco. “With all the media attention swirling around these events, it is likely that some in our educational and local Hermiston community will be affected. My thoughts go out to everyone.”
The following are a few resources that may be valuable in dealing with difficult conversations and coping strategies:
• Helping your children manage distress in the aftermath of a shooting
• Talking About Tough Topics
• A National Tragedy: Helping Children Cope
