I remember my first conversation with Anna Reed while perched at my kitchen counter, my children unusually silent, absorbed in a marathon of cartoons and an excess of cheese puffs. It felt surreal to be excited about the discussion ahead. Yet, here I was, engaging in a vital conversation about threat management and violence prevention with the founder of Safe and Sound Schools. Maybe it was the realization that this articulate and passionate woman could be instrumental in driving the change we desperately need.
Safe and Sound Schools emerged from the tragedy of Sandy Hook, where Anna lost her daughter, Emily. Emily, the girl with the radiant smile under her playful hat, deserved a future that was cruelly taken from her. Anna’s grief has transformed into a mission: to ensure that others understand the preventable nature of such tragedies.
I’ve long understood that violence is a process—one that can be anticipated and mitigated. No one simply “snaps.” Our educational institutions have a duty to better identify at-risk students and redirect them towards healthier futures. Communities must unite to enhance the security and emergency protocols within our schools. Often, parents assume that someone else is taking charge—conducting drills, coordinating with law enforcement, identifying vulnerabilities, or reporting concerning behaviors. The violence witnessed on that fateful day—and in many instances since—can be avoided, but only if we collectively acknowledge the reality and commit to consistent improvement.
In today’s political climate, it’s crucial to remember that genuine change often arises from the actions of ordinary individuals rather than just politicians or affluent leaders. It’s those who have faced unimaginable loss, who refuse to let their grief silence them, that create lasting impact. For instance, the emergency alert you receive on your phone during a child abduction doesn’t stem from a government initiative; it results from the relentless efforts of Amber Hagerman’s parents, who wished to prevent such tragedies from befalling others. Similarly, the “Code Adam” protocol, designed to assist in locating lost children, was established by the parents of Adam Walsh, not a politician. The public availability of sex offender information is a legacy of Megan Kanka’s parents, who fought tirelessly for that right. Despite ongoing complacency from school administrators and denial from some parents about potential violence, Anna Reed is unwavering in her commitment to making our schools safer.
I often advocate for enhanced safety measures in schools, yet I admit that if I were in Anna’s shoes, I might struggle to rise each morning. The fact that others can rise above their sorrow and strive to protect my children is profoundly humbling. If I can contribute in even a minor way to honor their children and support their efforts, that would be sufficient for me.
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In summary, this piece serves as a heartfelt tribute to the parents who channel their grief into advocacy for safer schools. Their relentless efforts remind us that change often starts at the grassroots level, driven by love and a desire for a better future for our children.