GBSD response to Colorado Springs Nightclub Shooting

November 23, 2022

Dear GBSD Community,

The shooting last weekend at an LGBTQ2SIA+ nightclub in Colorado Springs on the eve of Transgender Day of Remembrance is a reminder that there continues to be a need for a safe and supportive environment for LGBTQ2SIA+ young people.

The Gresham-Barlow School District’s Equity Policy JBB states, “The Gresham-Barlow School District is committed to ensuring the right of each student to have equitable opportunities to achieve their dreams and academic goals by minimizing barriers and limitations. Student success will not be predicted nor predetermined by national origin, race, culture, ethnicity, sex, language, socio-economic status, mobility, sexual orientation, disability, and/or religion.”

GBSD is committed to creating welcoming spaces for LGBTQ2SIA+ students and staff. We are dedicated to ensuring our school environments are places where students are affirmed, feel safe and welcome, and can be their whole selves.

During this challenging moment in time, please know that if the events from last weekend are bringing up feelings of trauma, fatigue, or stress, we encourage you to reach out to your school’s principal or school counselor. We are here for you.

Many thanks to everyone in our school community who work together to create a warm, supportive, and safe learning environment. At GBSD our mission is to do all we can to ensure students are inspired, empowered, and thrive. 

Sincerely,

James Hiu

Superintendent of Schools