Letter to Arne Duncan, Secretary of the Department of Education - Grant for Marysville School District

Letter

Dear Secretary Duncan,

As you know, on October 24, 2014, Washington state suffered a terrible tragedy, when a shooting in the Marsyville-Pilchuck High School cafeteria took the lives of five students, including the shooter. While the rapid and courageous efforts from individuals inside the school prevented further loss of life, this violent act has deeply shaken the high school and the community.

As you well know, the wounds inflicted by this tragedy extend beyond the physical injuries sustained in Marysville-Pilchuck High School. We are proud of the strength and resilience the Marysville community has shown by celebrating these young people and giving thanks for their lives, though they were cut terribly short. Over the coming weeks and months, the Marysville community will need a great deal of support as they restore stability to the campus, rebuild a supportive learning environment, and heal the emotional damage brought about by this traumatic event.

In response to this violence, we would like to offer our strong support for the Project SERV grant application submitted by Marysville-Pilchuck High School. We believe this flexible funding stream will offer vital assistance to the school in the aftermath of the October 24th shooting.

The Washington state delegation appreciates the support the Department of Education has provided for schools in our state and nation which have experienced similar trauma, and thanks the Department as it works quickly to support Marysville-Pilchuck High School's recovery.