Students, staff, families offered emotional support
Las Cruces Public Schools continues to offer additional support and counseling resources following the March 21 fatal shooting that involved current and former students of the district. The incident, which reportedly happened at Young Park in Las Cruces, took the life of a Centennial High School student and injured many others, including some LCPS students.
Over the weekend, LCPS administration worked with local mental health agencies to provide additional support at all school campuses Monday morning. Saturday, the district communicated with all staff, reaffirming those resources.
“We are deeply saddened at this news and offer our condolences to all the families impacted by this senseless tragedy,” said LCPS Superintendent Ignacio Ruiz. “The events that unfolded over the weekend are difficult to understand, especially for our young people. Our schools need to be a safe space for our students and staff, and we are committed to ensuring that.”
District officials reminded staff, students and families that LCPS is working closely with law enforcement and any information related to the investigation should be shared directly with police using the non-emergency number provided over the weekend, 575-526-0795.
The Doña Ana County Office of Emergency Management has set up in-person crisis counseling, victim advocacy, spiritual counseling and connection to financial resources to anyone impacted by this incident. They will be at the Las Cruces Convention Center, 680 E. University Ave., Monday, March 24 and Tuesday, March 25 from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Additional dates and times may be announced.
Parents were additionally given the Crisis Lifeline number for emotional support available 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Anyone needing assistance can call or text 988 for free, confidential support. The Kidz Talk line is also available for phone calls and text messages at 575-636-3636 or via email, kidtalk@lapinion.org.
Families looking for resources from the National Association of School Psychologists on how to talk to children about violence can find more information on their website.
In support of the Las Cruces Police Department, the Doña Ana County Office of Emergency Management and the New Mexico Crime Victims Reparations Commission, the Community Foundation of Southern New Mexico has established the Together Las Cruces Crisis Action Fund for those who wish to provide safe and secure monetary assistance. More information on the fund can be found here.
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