Dear TFA Families,

Today, the Robb Elementary School community in Uvalde, Texas, is devastated as they work through the tragedy that unfolded yesterday. There are no words to describe the sorrow that they are feeling.

As we celebrate the end of a wonderful year at TFA with parties and water slides, they are broken-hearted and searching for answers. They will carry the scars of these moments for the rest of their lives.

This morning I joined a group of teachers, and we prayed for the families of the victims and the school community. Uvalde is a small town and a friendly place with a school where every child is known and loved. We also prayed for the brave law enforcement officers who responded to this unspeakable tragedy.

As our children process this news throughout the week, we want to hold them tight and pray over them. We also want to point them to the source of our hope:

Psalm 20:7 says, “Some trust in horses and some in chariots, but we trust in the name of the Lord our God.”

Psalm 46:1 reminds us, “God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble.”

Psalm 27:1 says, “The LORD is my light and my salvation- whom shall I fear? The LORD is the stronghold of my life- of whom shall I be afraid?”

John 14:27 says, “Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid.”

Tricia and I join you and all of our students in praying that God’s peace, comfort, and grace will be with us and among us in the days ahead. Our hearts are joined with the Robb Elementary School community today and in the weeks and months ahead.

Sincerely,

Steve Whitaker, Ph.D.

Head of School