APS Prioritizes Security In All School Buildings: Superintendent

ARLINGTON, VA — The head of Arlington Public Schools emphasized Wednesday that the safety of students and staff at county schools remains a top priority.

Francisco Durán, superintendent of Arlington Public Schools, offered his reassurances to the school community one day after a mass shooting at an elementary school in Texas and a day after an Alexandria High School student was killed in a fight.

“We condemn these senseless acts of violence and offer our deepest sympathies to those who have lost loved ones,” Durán said. “I want you to know that the health and safety of our schools, and the students and staff in our care, remain our highest priority.”

The Arlington County Police Department said its officers are conducting extra patrols near schools, but that there are no known threats to schools in the county.

The number of children shot and killed at Robb Elementary School in Uvalde, Texas, climbed to 19. Two adults were also killed, and the 18-year-old gunman was shot dead by law enforcement.

Texas Gov. Greg Abbott identified the shooter as Salvador Ramos, of Uvalde. The shooter carried a long rifle with multiple rounds of ammunition and wore a tactical vest as body armor.

READ ALSO: Texas School Shooting: What We Know About Uvalde Victims

Durán said APS prioritizes security in all its buildings, and its safety plans are reviewed by staff, in collaboration with local first responders.

APS has support services available to those who may be struggling with processing these events. School staff will be providing developmentally appropriate responses to students, and students are encouraged to reach out to a counselor or other trusted adults if they need support. Staff can contact the Employee Assistance Program for support.

Durán also provided online resources as guides for assistance in the wake of the incidents:

• National Association of School Psychologists Talking to Children about Violence: Tips for Parents and Teachers
• American Psychological Association: Helping your children manage distress in the aftermath of a shooting
• Common Sense Media: How to Talk to Kids About School Shooting
• The National Child Traumatic Stress Network: Age-Related Reactions to a Traumatic Event