Indya KINCANNON
2nd District School Board Representative

Tragic Day at Central High School  - August 2008

Dear Everyone,

By now I’m sure you’re aware of the shooting that took place at Central High School yesterday morning.  Like you, I am horrified by this event.  My thoughts and prayers go out to the family of the victim, and all the students, parents, teachers and staff who are affected by this shocking and tragic event.

My thanks go to the staff and administration at Central, who handled the aftermath in a caring, professional way.  I also am grateful for the quick response by the Knoxville Police, Knox County Sheriff and Knoxville Fire Department.  Emergency responders arrived at the school within 90 seconds and law enforcement apprehended the suspect, who had fled into the neighborhood, within minutes as well.

When I arrived at the school yesterday morning everyone was calm and working hard to reunite parents with their children. I can imagine the horrible feeling parents had when they heard the news about the incident and knew their loved ones were in the building.  I’m glad we permit students to have cell phones with them, which are allowed to be used in emergency situations.

An incident like this raises many questions, chief among them is: What can the school system and the community do to prevent further violence in our schools?  I am seeking answers to that question and welcome any suggestions from you.  I will work closely with Dr. McIntyre, our new Superintendent, to implement any ideas that will make our schools safer for all children, and the adults serving them.

Please keep the Central High School family in your thoughts.

Indya