'Our Country Can Do Better': MPS Reacts To Uvalde School Shooting

MINNEAPOLIS — Parents, children, teachers, and other staff in the Minneapolis Public Schools community are reacting to the deadly mass shooting Tuesday at a Texas elementary school.

The Texas Department of Public Safety has confirmed to multiple outlets, including The New York Times, that 19 children and two adults were killed at Robb Elementary School in Uvalde.

The gunman was also killed in the shooting.

"Our children are suffering," Minneapolis Public Schools posted on its Facebook page.

"We witnessed again a horrific shooting in a school in Texas and we weep and ask why. Our country can do better than this. We have to. Our hearts are with the students, staff and families of Robb Elementary School in Ulvalde."

Other Minnesota officials and lawmakers reacted to the mass shooting in Uvalde.

"Beyond heartbroken over the horrific tragedy at Robb Elementary School in Texas," Democrat Sen. Amy Klobuchar said. "It has been nearly a decade since Sandy Hook and gun safety legislation has been repeatedly blocked. Unconscionable."

"Jacquie and I are absolutely heartbroken to hear about the tragedy unfolding in Uvalde," wrote Republican Rep. Tom Emmer. "Praying for the entire Robb Elementary community and the families of those lost in today’s senseless act of violence."

"I am watching the news coming out of Texas in horror," wrote Democrat Gov. Tim Walz. "This cannot continue. Minnesota grieves with the parents and families of every child who was shot and killed in Uvalde today."

"Horrific news. No words," said Democrat Sen. Tina Smith. "The blockade of gun safety bills has caused an untold number of unnecessary deaths in this country."

Read more: Texas School Shooting: 19 Children Killed In Uvalde