Kootenay Lake School District 8 is expressing sorrow and empathy following Tuesday’s shooting at a school in Tumbler Ridge.
“There are no words to express the level of shock, sorrow and concern we feel for the children, families, staff and community members of Tumbler Ridge,” board of education chair Susan Chew said in a statement.
“Tumbler Ridge is a small, rural community, much like many of the communities we serve in SD8. When something like this happens, it resonates deeply. Our thoughts are with everyone affected.”
All SD8 schools are flying flags at half-mast this week in respect for the lives lost.
“Nothing is more important than the safety and well-being of children and the adults who care for them,” said Superintendent Trish Smillie.
“Tragic events can affect children, youth and adults in different ways, even when there is no direct connection to the community involved. Withdrawal, sadness, anger and other emotional responses are normal reactions. Reactions may vary by age, past experiences and other factors.”
Smillie added that the well-being of students and staff remains the district’s top priority. Meetings are taking place in all SD8 schools and district offices to share information and resources related to school safety and mental health and to provide opportunities for staff to support each other.
The district emphasized that staff are trained to respond promptly and effectively to critical incidents. Schools and worksites regularly conduct drills for emergencies, including fires, lockdowns and hold-and-secure procedures.
The district said it will continue to focus on school safety and caring for students and staff in the weeks ahead.
For more information, families are encouraged to contact their school principal.
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