Our thoughts and hearts are with our educational counterparts and parents who make up the school community at Sandy Hook Elementary in Connecticut. The senseless tragedy and the number of lives that were touched by such horrible acts seem incomprehensible. We pray that they will draw strength from their faith and find comfort among their family and friends.

We, at Polk County Public Schools, realize that we are entrusted with parents’ most treasured gift: their children. We take this responsibility very seriously and we will continue to do all that we can to provide our students with a safe and nurturing environment. Emergency practice drills, crisis support and contingency plans are in place at every school and given the highest priority. Our teachers and principals are keenly aware of their role as protectors and leaders and I have the highest regard and confidence in their ability.