In a striking reminder of the fears faced by both students and educators, a high school teacher’s emergency kit played a vital role in saving a student’s life during a tragic shooting incident at Saugus High School. As America grapples with the alarming reality of school shootings, it’s crucial to acknowledge the extraordinary measures some teachers are taking to protect their students.
The Incident
Kara Mitchell, a 26-year-old choir instructor, found herself in an unimaginable situation when gunfire erupted on campus. Just after 7:30 AM, a student began shooting, resulting in the death of two peers—a 16-year-old girl and a 14-year-old boy—with three others injured. Remarkably, Mitchell’s class was initially unaware of the chaos outside, absorbed in listening to a recording of their own singing. It was only when panicked students rushed in that they understood the gravity of the situation.
Taking Action
As the terror unfolded, Mitchell swiftly moved her classroom’s grand piano to barricade the door, guiding numerous students into a nearby office with a locked door. They instinctively silenced their phones and stifled their cries, following the protocols from previous lockdown drills. One brave student dialed 911 while another located a fire extinguisher as a precaution.
However, they were not merely sheltering in place. Among the students seeking refuge was a girl who had sustained serious injuries, including gunshot wounds to her torso. Fortunately, Mitchell had a gunshot wound kit in her classroom, which she utilized to treat the injured teen. Using her phone’s flashlight, she assessed the girl’s wounds and discovered additional injuries. Alongside a courageous freshman named Alex, they worked together to apply pressure and stem the bleeding, showcasing remarkable bravery under intense pressure. Despite the chaos, the injured student managed to joke, saying, “I guess I’m going to be home-schooled after this.”
Reflections and Aftermath
Reflecting on the incident, Mitchell admitted, “I genuinely thought it wouldn’t happen here.” Many others share her disbelief, emphasizing the tragic reality that educators need to keep emergency kits on hand. It’s disheartening to realize that teachers often purchase these supplies out of their own pockets, a testament to their dedication but also a glaring sign of systemic failure.
Later that evening, Mitchell learned that the student she had helped had successfully undergone surgery and was expected to recover. While this news provided some relief, the new teacher is still grappling with the emotional toll of the day. “No one should have to endure this, least of all my students,” she stated. “We need significant changes to ensure this never happens again.”
For more insights on navigating challenging situations, check out this related post from our blog.
Conclusion
In summary, Kara Mitchell’s quick thinking and resourcefulness during a school shooting not only helped save a student’s life but also highlighted the urgent need for change in how we protect our schools and the individuals within them.