Contact: Mark Jones, MNEA Director of Public Affairs
C: 573-508-8528
E: mark.jones@mnea.org
JEFFERSON CITY, MO. Missouri NEA President Rebeka McIntosh released this statement after a stabbing injured two students and a teacher at Black Hawk Middle School in Warrenton.
"No parent should have to wait outside a school to learn their child is safe. Warrenton parents did. Missouri's educators stand with them, and with the two students and the teacher who are hurt.
"Black Hawk educators did what educators do. They cared for frightened students and worked with police to return them to their parents. We thank them, and we thank the officers and medical crews who moved fast.
"Warrenton students and school employees will need care for weeks and months. Missouri NEA will work with our members, families and the district to make sure they get it.
"Every student deserves a school that is a place of learning, not fear. Every educator deserves to go home safe. To get there, we call on state and local leaders to take three steps. Put counselors, school psychologists, social workers and nurses within reach of every student. Staff every school so each student has a trusted adult who knows them. Give students, families and educators a seat at the table when schools write safety plans.
"Missouri's educators are ready to get to work with every leader who is."