Avon Superintendent Addresses Community about Newtown Elementary School Shooting

After the tragic shooting at Sandy Hook Elementary School in Newtown that State Police Lt. J. Paul Vance told reporters resulted in the deaths of 20 children, six adults and the shooter, Superintendent Gary Mala released the following statement to the Avon Public Schools community.

It is also posted on the Avon Public Schools website.

Dear Parents, Concerned Citizens, Faculty and Staff:

It is with a heavy heart that I am writing this message acknowledging the tragic shooting at Sandy Hook Elementary School in Newton earlier today. I know you join me by expressing our deepest sympathies, thoughts and prayers to the children, families, school personnel and residents of Newtown.

During times of such tragedy, it is not unusual for all of us to question why such senseless acts have become all too frequent.  While we will never have an answer, we can be confident in our community, leaders (both in school and out), talented law enforcement and emergency response staff. 

Each school in Avon, and the district as a whole, maintain comprehensive emergency response plans that are practiced in collaboration with emergency response and law enforcement staff on a regular basis throughout the school year.  We also remain proactive and vigilant with maintaining policies and procedures to ensure the highest degree of safety and security for our students, staff and those who visit our schools. I am confident that the diligence of school and town staff, coupled with the care and concern expressed by parents and residents, will allows us to continue to provide a safe environment for all.

Today, I met with the principals of our schools and leaders of our emergency response units.  We reviewed each school’s plan and discussed responses to any questions that may arise after the full details of today’s tragedy are released.  If you have any questions, please don’t hesitate to contact your child’s principal.

In closing, I thank you for joining me with our genuine expressions of sympathy to those who have been impacted by the events in Newtown today.  Thank you for your continued support and I will provide you updates on our work in the coming days.

I remain very truly yours,

Gary S. Mala
Superintendent of Schools