ALEXANDRIA, VA & ALBANY, NY (April 11, 2022) – We are truly saddened by the senseless act of violence in Mt. Vernon, after the wonderful parade celebrating the success of the boys’ basketball team in their
state championship win.
We join the community and Mt. Vernon PTA Council, in mourning the loss of a 16-year-old student, and
keep other students affected in our hearts, wishing them a full recovery.
National PTA, New York State PTA and PTAs nationwide remain committed to supporting our students and families, and helping to end acts of violence in our schools and communities. For those in need of
mental health support during this time, free resources are available at PTA.org/HealthyMinds.
A message from the school community:
Counselors will be on hand at DWSA 121 South 6th Ave. Mount Vernon, NY, from 10:00am – 2:00pm.
Please take advantage of this free service.
Also note there will be two memorials today, April 11:
- A peaceful walk – Boys & Girls Club 4:30pm
- Vigil – City Hall 7pm (wear pink)
About National PTA
National PTA® comprises millions of families, students, teachers, administrators, and business and
community leaders devoted to the educational success of children and the promotion of family
engagement in schools. PTA is a registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit association that prides itself on being a
powerful voice for all children, a relevant resource for families and communities, and a strong advocate
for public education. Membership in PTA is open to anyone who wants to be involved and make a
difference for the education, health, and welfare of children and youth. For more information, visit
PTA.org.
About New York State PTA
The NYS Congress of Parents and Teachers, Inc. (NYS PTA) is the oldest and largest child advocacy
association in New York State, established in 1897 to make every child’s potential a reality. NYS PTA is
honored to represent the families of our 2.6 million school children and our nearly 250,000 members. It
is our mission to Shine a Light on Every Child with One Voice. www.nyspta.org
Media Contacts
Heidi May Wilson, National PTA
hmay@pta.org
(703) 518-1242
Kyle Belokopitsky, NYS PTA
execdirector@nyspta.org
(518) 452-8808