The Evergreen Public Schools (EPS) board of directors voted to formally adopt support for improved school safety measures and students appropriately advocating for change. Resolution 6022 also declares board support for the March of Our Lives on March 24, 2018.

The resolution identifies the need for safe schools and recognizes that school violence presents a danger not only to students and staff, but to the community as a whole. Since 2013, 291 school shootings have happened nationwide -- with eight of those in Washington state -- and continue to undermine the sense of security that all students should have in their learning environments.

"Student safety is a multifaceted, complex issue," said Superintendent John Steach. "The Evergreen Board has set a clear priority that as a district and community we need to explore each of these facets from every perspective to continuously improve the safety of our learning environment. Evergreen remains focused on social and emotional learning, mental health, student relationships, facility improvements, and partnerships with local law enforcement."

In addition to supporting prevention, intervention, and community re-entry programs to reduce gun violence, the resolution ensures the board's continued work with community stakeholders and law enforcement, and encourages students to seek out appropriate ways to communicate and lobby for change.

The complete resolution is attached to this press release.

About Evergreen Public Schools
Established in 1945, Evergreen Public Schools (Evergreen School District 114) is the sixth largest school district in the state of Washington. The district is home to 37 schools, serving the educational needs of more than 26,000 students. With more than 3,300 employees, Evergreen Public Schools is the third largest employer in Clark County.