Montgomery County Public Schools and the Montgomery County Board of Education released a joint statement Tuesday afternoon expressing grief and support following Monday’s shooting at Thomas S. Wootton High School (full statement available below).
In the statement, MCPS leaders said they are heartbroken by the tragic event and emphasized their commitment to providing a safe, equitable, and inclusive school community. The message acknowledged the harm caused by acts of violence in spaces meant for learning, growth, and connection, and expressed solidarity with the injured student, their family, friends, and the broader Wootton community.
School officials said Wootton High School remains open to ensure students have access to mental health and community support. District leaders stressed that being together allows schools to provide trauma-informed counseling, mental health resources, and a familiar environment where students and staff can process their emotions alongside trusted adults and peers. MCPS also noted that families are being supported as they help their children navigate the aftermath of the incident.
The statement highlighted appreciation for Wootton staff, recognizing their commitment and the emotional toll of supporting students while managing their own reactions to the event.
MCPS and the Board of Education reiterated that student and staff safety remains their highest priority. District leaders said they continue to work closely with law enforcement, mental health professionals, and community partners to maintain safe, secure, and supportive learning environments across all schools.
The message concluded by emphasizing unity, care, and ongoing support for the Wootton community as it continues to heal. Full statement:
Good afternoon MCPS families,
We are heartbroken over Monday’s tragic event at Thomas S. Wootton High School. The Board of Education and Montgomery County Public Schools are committed to providing a safe, equitable and inclusive school community. When our values are threatened by overt acts of violence, we are called to come together. Our thoughts are with the injured student, their family, friends and the entire Wootton community. This should never happen in a space dedicated to learning, growing and community.
In this very difficult time, we are committed to providing aid to our students, staff and families. Wootton High School is open today to ensure that students have access to mental health and community support. Being together allows us to provide trauma-informed counseling, mental health resources, and a familiar environment where students and staff can process their feelings and begin to heal alongside their peers and trusted adults. We are also helping families as they guide their children through this process. We deeply appreciate the commitment of the staff who are tirelessly supporting students.
The safety and well-being of every student and staff member is our highest priority. The Board and MCPS remain unwavering in our commitment to maintaining safe, secure and supportive learning environments in all of our schools. We continue to work closely with law enforcement, mental health professionals, and community partners to protect our students and ensure our schools remain places where students can learn, grow and thrive.
During this painful time, we will continue to stand together to provide care, support and safety for all.
Montgomery County Board of Education and Montgomery County Public Schools
Thomas W. Taylor, Ed.D., M.B.A. Grace Rivera-Oven
Superintendent of Schools
