"Deep sorrow expressed: Faith and educational leaders in Wisconsin respond to the shooting at a Catholic school in Minneapolis"
In a tragic turn of events, a gunman opened fire through the windows of a Catholic church and school in Minneapolis, resulting in the death of two children and at least 17 injuries. The news of the shooting is devastating, as stated by Trish Kilpin, Director of the Office of School Safety in Wisconsin.
Kilpin emphasized the importance of the community noticing warning behaviors and reporting them. This sentiment was echoed by faith and school leaders in Wisconsin, who are feeling the weight of the tragedy. Kilpin believes that tragedies like the one in Minneapolis underscore the importance of efforts like the Speak Up, Speak Out tip line.
The Diocese of Madison shared prayers for the victims and families impacted by the shooting, while Wisconsin Governor Tony Evers shared a Facebook post from Minnesota Governor Tim Walz, after Walz was briefed on the shooting. Wisconsin is keeping its neighbors across the river in its hearts following the shooting.
The aftermath of such an event is expected to significantly impact lives. This sentiment is particularly felt at Abundant Life Christian School in Madison, where leaders expressed deep personal pain due to the school shooting that occurred in December, resulting in two deaths.
Prevention is at the heart of Kilpin's work in preventing acts of violence. She has been collaborating with other school leaders about the Minneapolis shooting, and the "Speak Up, Speak Out" initiative in Wisconsin is being strengthened. Managed by the Wisconsin School Safety Coordinators and the Wisconsin Department of Public Instruction, measures taken include enhanced school safety training, improved communication systems, and increased mental health resources.
The tragedy serves as a reminder of the immense challenges and impact of school shootings. Kilpin and others working to prevent violence in Wisconsin schools feel the weight of the responsibility to do everything possible to prevent similar incidents. They stand united in their commitment to ensuring the safety of Wisconsin's schools and communities.
