Dear Garfield families and SPS community,

I am deeply saddened by the senseless act of gun violence that claimed the life of one of our Garfield students yesterday. There are no words to express how extremely heartbreaking it is to lose a child. Heartfelt condolences go out to the victim’s family, friends, and the Garfield community.

This tragedy greatly affects our entire SPS community. My primary concern is the well-being and safety of our students and staff. We in Seattle Public Schools are committed to providing the necessary support and resources to our students and staff during this tragic event.

To be sure our Garfield students and staff can access support services, Garfield classes are canceled for Friday, June 7 and Monday, June 10. All other schools will remain open.

Garfield school staff and district’s Safety and Security team are working with the Seattle Police on their investigation.

I am grateful for the quick response by the Seattle Police Department and the SPS Safety and Security team. I also want to commend the responsiveness of Principal Tarance Hart and the quick action of the Garfield staff. Thank you for your rapid response to secure the campus.

We must come together to work to end gun violence. We know it effects our students and we must do more so they can feel safe in order to learn and thrive. School board leadership and I are talking with Mayor Harrell and working together for change in our city. The work to stop gun violence requires collective efforts, and our commitment must be unwavering.

We realize that support is needed to begin processing this tragedy. SPS Coordinated School Health and Staff Wellness (EAP) are available to help our community. You can find community resources on our Mental Health Services department webpage.

Please hold your loved ones close and seek comfort in one another. We will keep you updated as information becomes available.

Sincerely,

Superintendent Brent Jones
Seattle Public Schools