Statement by Superintendent Jones on Tyre Nichols and Recent Gun Violence

On the eve of Black History Month and Black Lives Matter at School Week, we have more painful sagas to chronicle.  

Seattle Public Schools condemns the murder of Tyre Nichols and the mass gun violence in California. We grieve the loss of Mr. Nichols and the 19 people lost in Half Moon Bay and Monterey Park. We send our condolences and love out to their families and everyone seeking clarity and comfort. 

The trauma is inexplicable, but all too familiar. Pain reverberates throughout our nation as we decry injustices against our peace. It is the power of family and community that carries us through these challenging times. We must continue to wrap our arms around each other, particularly our students. The constant imagery of Black and Brown souls in danger and despair is beyond harmful. These heinous miscarriages of law enforcement authority and gun violence should never be accepted. 

We must find our strength in each other. Our role as the protectors of our young people, particularly our Black boys and teens and Students of Color, has become more important than ever. My hope is that our community will surround our youth with support as they attempt to process these tragic events. The following resources may help families talk with their students. 

• Talking to Children about Violence: Tips for Parents and Teachers
• Addressing Race and Trauma in the Classroom
• Color in Colorado Tips for Talking with Children About Tragedy in the News

Understandably, we have been shaken to our core. However, we remain steadfast in our commitment to disrupt all societal legacies of racism and hate. Our children deserve to live and thrive without fear.  

Yours in service, 

Dr. Brent Jones 
Superintendent 
Seattle Public Schools