I sat at my kitchen counter for my first call with Laura Harris, the founder of Safe and Sound Schools. My kids were unusually quiet, absorbed in their screens and indulging in too many cheesy puffs. I felt an odd sense of excitement about our conversation. Discussing safety and violence prevention with such a passionate and articulate individual felt significant—almost like uncovering a piece of the puzzle we desperately need to solve.
Safe and Sound Schools is an initiative inspired by the tragic events at Sandy Hook. Laura is the mother of Emily, a bright little girl whose joyful face we all remember from the news. Emily’s life was cut tragically short that fateful day, and her mom is determined to ensure that no other family experiences such a loss.
For years, I’ve been aware that violence is not a spontaneous act; it’s a process that can be anticipated and prevented. Schools should be proactive in identifying students who are struggling and guiding them toward healthier paths. Communities need to collaborate to enhance the safety protocols and emergency plans at our educational institutions. Too often, parents assume someone else has taken charge—conducting drills, coordinating with law enforcement, identifying vulnerabilities, and reporting concerning behavior. The violence we’ve witnessed doesn’t have to persist, but it requires our collective acknowledgment and relentless effort to improve safety measures.
In today’s political climate, it’s essential to recognize that real change often comes from everyday people, not just politicians or those in power. It’s parents like Laura, who have suffered unimaginable losses, that drive meaningful change. The reason we receive alerts on our phones for missing children is due to the tireless efforts of Amber Hagerman’s parents, who wanted to prevent other families from experiencing similar heartbreak. Similarly, the “Code Adam” protocol was established because of the advocacy of Adam Walsh’s parents. Megan Kanka’s parents worked hard to ensure that sex offender information is accessible to the public. Despite some school administrators claiming that current safety measures are adequate, Laura continues to strive for safer schools for all our children.
I often discuss the need for safety reforms in schools, but if I’m honest, I sometimes wonder if I could muster the strength to advocate for change if I were in Laura’s position. The fact that she and others like her can channel their grief into action for the sake of our kids is incredibly humbling. If I can contribute even in a small way to support their efforts and honor the memories of their children, it will be enough for me.
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In conclusion, let’s honor the remarkable dedication of parents like Laura who work tirelessly to keep our children safe. Their resilience inspires us all to act, advocate, and ensure a brighter future for the next generation.