Bedford Public Schools

May 24, 2022

Dear Bedford Public Schools Community, 

Late this afternoon, I learned, as many of you did, of yet another senseless assault on the lives of innocent children and staff members that occurred inside Robb Elementary School in Uvalde, Texas. Current news reports detail the loss of twenty-one individuals in total with many more injured and receiving medical treatment. My heart breaks for the families and friends of the eighteen elementary age students and the three staff members who perished in this tragedy. As a parent of an elementary age student, husband to a building principal, and superintendent charged with the planning and safety for all your children, I struggle with the words to console those of you who are no doubt questioning where we go from here.

If any students or staff members need assistance as we all try to process this unimaginable act, please seek the support of our amazing building principals or counseling staff. District leadership will ensure that our district mental health and trauma team members are available at all levels. Bedford Public Schools remain committed to ensuring both the physical and emotional health of our students and staff. As many of you already know, through the support of our community, the district has incorporated safety measures at each building that have been proven to deter and limit incidents such as this tragedy. The safety of our community, however, cannot begin and end at the entrances to our school buildings. Please maintain a constant and watchful eye on those who are around you daily for changes in regular behaviors and actions, emotional or mental instability, and any other perceived occurrences that may lead to threatening behaviors. Many tragedies such as this can be prevented with the support and reporting of concerns by loved ones. Reports can also be made anonymously through the state’s OK2SAY Program at (855) 565-2729 or by contacting the Monroe County Sheriff Office’s non-emergency dispatch at (734) 243-7070. Monroe County Sheriff Troy Goodnough has already reached out to district leaders county-wide to pledge an increased deputy presence across districts moving forward. Please let’s all be vigilant in our fight to maintain the safety of our community.

Thank you all for your dedication to our community, and most importantly, to the children of our community. If there is anything that the district can do to assist you or your family, please do not hesitate to contact the administration. The victims and families of Robb Elementary School will forever be in our thoughts and prayers.

Sincerely,

Carl Shultz, Ph.D.

Superintendent, Bedford Public Schools