The Jefferson County Education Support Professionals Association (JESPA) has issued a statement following the school shooting at Evergreen High School. The incident, which occurred yesterday, left several students wounded and has deeply affected the local community.
In its statement, JESPA expressed sympathy for those impacted by the tragedy. “To the students, families, and staff of Jeffco and Evergreen High School: We are devastated by the events that unfolded yesterday. Our hearts are with all of you, especially the students who were wounded, their families, and the Evergreen community. We hope for their full and swift recovery.”
The association highlighted the roles of educational support professionals in maintaining safe learning environments. “From the secretaries, paraeducators, and pre-k staff who welcome students in the morning to the custodians closing the building at the end of the day, from those driving our students to those serving lunch to them, to the campus supervisors and maintenance workers who work to keep our schools safe—Educational Support Professionals (ESPs) are constantly focused on student and staff wellbeing. We organize for safe learning and working conditions in our schools because our students and staff deserve a nurturing environment that leads to healthy and fulfilling lives.”
JESPA also noted that such tragedies have widespread effects across Jefferson County. “The tragedy that occurred at Evergreen High School affects all of us in Jeffco, and is a real and terrifying possibility for students, teachers, ESPs, parents, community members, and anyone else who finds themselves inside a school in this country.”
The organization called for unity during this difficult period. “In this time of crisis, we encourage solidarity and checking in with one another to build a supportive community. We must rely on each other and band together to guarantee public education in Colorado has the resources it needs for safe schools.”
Resources have been made available for those seeking assistance after the event. A resource center will operate at Bergen Meadow Elementary’s old building on September 11th from 9am-5pm and September 12th from 9am-1pm at 1928 S. Hiwan Drive. Services will include victim advocates, mental health professionals, compensation representatives, and school personnel.
Additional support options include:
– Jefferson County Schools Employee Assistance Program (303-982-0377)
– The Colorado Mental Health Line (Dial 988)
– The Colorado Crisis Hotline (1-844-493-TALK)
– Jefferson Center for Mental Health (303-425-0300)
JESPA concluded its message by affirming its commitment to supporting Evergreen High School’s recovery efforts: “We stand with Evergreen. We grieve with you. And we commit to being part of the path forward. Together, we must act boldly to end the tragic epidemic of gun violence in our country.”
