IECA Responds to Tragic Violence at Universities

We are devastated by the tragic acts of violence at the University of Idaho and the University of Virginia. We extended our deepest sympathies to the families of the victims as well as the students, faculty, and staff at both universities, and their families.

We urge our members and your student and family clients to prioritize your mental health and wellness, both in the face of such horrific events and for long-term health and well-being. We also advocate for policies that focus on the mental health and wellness of our students and educators to help prevent such tragic events in the future.

You may find these resources helpful, as both parents and educators:

IECA Advocates for School Safety in Wake of Texas School Shooting

All of us at IECA are profoundly saddened by the horrific school shooting at Robb Elementary School in Uvalde, Texas yesterday. We offer our deepest sympathies to those who lost loved ones at this senseless, devastating act of violence, and to the entire Uvalde, Texas community. We also extend our support to those who are re-traumatized from other, all-too-familiar past violent experiences both within and beyond school buildings.

As educators, we call for action by our elected officials to restore our schools as safe environments for students, teachers, families, and staff. We encourage our members to look closely at the policies of their local officials and to advocate for initiatives aimed at firearm safety and mental health initiatives toward preventing such future tragic violent acts. No teacher or child should have to feel afraid in a classroom.

For parents and educators across the country helping students process this horrific event, these resources may be helpful: