Statement on shooting, bomb threat, & lockdowns

It was a tough day for Saco. Between the shooting in Hillview Heights, the bomb threat at Thornton Academy, and the lockdowns throughout our school system, it's easy to see how one's sense of security is shaken. 

Maybe some double check their doors to ensure they are locked or start locking them for the first time, maybe some keep their kids away from school tomorrow, etc. The key to remember is we are #SacoStrong. Our community is resilient. We pull together in times of need. We go above and beyond to help those less fortunate than ourselves even when we could use similar assistance. We treat each other like a close-knit family. That's why I love our community. It's steeped in culture, history, positivity, and love. 

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Before our brave men and women in uniform quickly responded admirably to the crisis at hand; Before our amazing faculty, staff, and administrators brilliantly executed safety precautions as trained and practiced; our Saco Middle School students provided the best example of why we must rise above and shine our light bright, not deterred from our normal day-to-day activities from recent events. This morning, these students organized a 'Day of Joy', a way to showcase what the true meaning of the holiday season is all about, giving back and spreading cheer. Students passed out candy canes and hot chocolate to parents dropping off their kids and to fellow classmates.

This may seem insignificant when we are talking about such serious topics of safety and our lives, but it is a gentle reminder to take a step back and be thankful for the time we are given; to live our lives as we sit fit; to love who we want to love; to follow our passions; fulfill our dreams; and make a difference in some way. To leave our world to the next generation a little better than we have it. Might sound corny to gain all this insight from a white and red striped confection and warmed chocolate-laced water, but it's what I thought about after all the craziness of the day subsided and I hope it gives you hope that while the events of today were both sad and scary, they are not what define this Saco community. We are so much more and we will regain our momentary loss of security.