Be Our Guest / Dr. Brian Disney

Safety and well-being of students, staff are top priorities in our Catholic schools

In light of the recent tragic school shooting at The Covenant School in Nashville, Tenn., we want to reiterate our commitment and our top priorities: the safety and well-being of the students and staff in our Catholic schools. The loss of young life, especially due to a school shooting, is tragic and brings tears to our eyes and hearts. Events like this cause us to pause and recommit to the safety and well-being of all.

Though no safety plan can guarantee absolute security, our schools continuously plan and adjust safety procedures with assistance of local law enforcement.

Vigilance by school staff, students, parents and community members is essential. Notifying administration of potential threats, following security protocols to enter the school during the day, and keeping outside doors locked are key factors to keeping our schools safe. The partnership of all stakeholders is important to maintaining a safe school environment.

In addition to the physical safety of our buildings, our Catholic schools are committed to the spiritual and emotional well-being of our students. Church teaching and Gospel values are infused throughout our schools and curriculum.

Love of God and love of neighbor are core values. All humans are treated with dignity, love and respect because we are all made in the image and likeness of God. When someone is hurting, we, like the Good Samaritan, treat their wounds and provide ongoing care. Our students participate in the sacraments and pray throughout each school day. We value everyone and continually promote spiritual and emotional health.

As we participate in the events of the holiest week in the Church year, let us remember to pray for all those who are hurting, especially those impacted by the shooting in Nashville.

Let us ask God to end all hatred, division and war so that his peace may rule in the world. Let us experience God’s mercy, grace and love so that we can more fully love God and neighbor. Let our Catholic schools be the light on the hill showing forth the glory of God. Let us experience the awesomeness of Easter joy.
 

(Dr. Brian Disney is the archdiocesan superintendent of Catholic schools.) †