Dear Colleagues,

I want to take a moment to acknowledge the difficult times that we are facing as another senseless act of gun violence occurred this week at The Covenant Presbyterian School in Nashville, Tennessee, resulting in the deaths of three adults and three children. This recent tragedy brings with it a great deal of sadness. It is even more personal as The Covenant Presbyterian School is a part of our EMA Member Community.

EMA recognizes that our member schools are significantly focused on students' well-being and safety in an increasingly challenging environment. Further, we know that you have a deep and personal commitment to all of the families and students served by your school.

As we continue to process what happened, please know that (in any way that we can) EMA stands in solidarity with you, and we want to offer support. To that end, we'd like to make you aware of a national webinar being put together by SAIS President (and EMA trustee) Debra Wilson to assist independent schools in evaluating the action steps they should take as they assess their campus safety strategy. You may register for the best date that works for you: 4/5 or 4/19.

As a trustee at United Educators, I am sharing with you some of their free resources which have been created by risk management experts:

• School Shooters: What We Know and Why Prevention Is Possible
• Secure Classroom Doors to Stop Active Shooters
• Seven Practices to Prevent and Prepare for Shootings

Please know that EMA's team is here to listen and help you navigate through difficult times. Reach out to me directly or anyone else you know at EMA, if you and your team would like further assistance and support.

Heather Hoerle
Executive Director & Chief Executive Officer
Enrollment Management Association