The following statement can be attributed to National PTA President Jim Accomando:
“One person was injured and a suspect is in custody after a shooting at a high school in Ocala, Florida. This is the second school shooting in Florida this year. Today also marks the 19th anniversary of the horrific shooting at Columbine High School in Colorado.
“Enough is enough. More needs to be done to keep our children safe and we demand immediate action. Every student deserves to learn and grow in a safe environment. And no parent should fear for the safety of their child every time they leave home for school.
“It remains a top priority of National PTA to promote safety for children and youth and improve education. National PTA has a strong history of supporting and advocating for policies in the areas of gun safety and violence prevention, juvenile justice, mental health and students’ overall well-being.
“National PTA urges Congress to adopt legislation that would strengthen background checks, fund gun violence research efforts, ban assault weapons and prevent persons who may endanger public safety from accessing guns. National PTA also urges policymakers to prioritize mental health education, early intervention, prevention and access to school and community-based mental health personnel and services.
“National PTA is committed to supporting students, families, schools and communities in coping with and preventing violence. The association offers a variety of resources that can be downloaded at PTA.org/SchoolSafety.”