I started to get teary as we pulled up to Joseph's school today. And then after dropping him off I cried most of the way home.
Apparently, yesterday there was a threat made by a student and the sheriff was involved in the investigation. Last night rumors were flying on social media about this threat, with many people deciding to not send their kids to school today. By late night, we received an email from the school principal saying that the sheriff's office had investigated the threat and found it not to be credible, but that all precautions would be taken to ensure safety and to help the students feel safe today.
We all felt a little apprehensive and uneasy about this threat of violence and talked it through with Joseph before bed. We decided together that he would still attend school, as it seemed that the authorities and administration were being proactive about safety.
As we neared the school, we could see flashing lights of police cars on the road leading into and in front of the school. There was an army of security personnel, sheriff deputies, and school and district administrators spread out along the walkway, ushering the kids in.
I was moved to see the quick response by so many to ensure my son and his classmates felt protected and safe. I was impressed that the reaction to a threat was immediate and comprehensive, even if the actual threat of danger may have been overblown and fueled by rumor. They took it seriously, and I appreciate that deeply.
But, my tears were also for the sad fact that I have to send my kids to school in a world where sometimes school hasn't been safe. I hate that they have to be scared and that the intense level of response is even necessary in places which should be a refuge and place of safety. Something needs to change.
