When the doors of Silver Rail Elementary closed for 27 days following a deadly shooting, the Bend‑La Pine School District faced a painful decision: demolish the building or welcome students back. In a recent district survey, over 86% of families expressed a strong desire to return, refusing to let the tragedy define their community.
Survey shows overwhelming support for reopening
Superintendent Steven Cook, who has led the district for six years, said the survey response was “palpable” and “meaningful.” He emphasized the district’s responsibility to provide a safe, supportive environment for the next 12½ years of students’ education.
Families share their hopes and fears
Parents like Cearrow Young described mixed emotions. While her kindergartener and third‑grader were eager to return, Young admitted she felt increasing anxiety as the reopening date approached. “The closer it got to the day we sent them back, the more anxious I started to feel,” she said.
Young’s youngest, 5‑year‑old Callie, expressed a new awareness of mortality after learning about the loss of 5‑year‑old Rhoam Summer, the youngest victim of the October 15 attack. The family found solace in therapeutic activities, such as leading miniature horses at Healing Reins, a local nonprofit that offers horse‑centered therapy.
Another parent, Nicole Ybarrondo, was initially uncertain about sending her children back. Her 9‑year‑old daughter Sofia was eager, while her 6‑year‑old son Jack hesitated. After a family discussion, Jack understood the situation and eventually embraced the return, saying, “It feels like nothing is predictable these days,” but also recognizing the importance of choice.
District takes concrete steps to improve safety
In response to parental concerns about security and mental‑health resources, the district has fortified the school’s physical infrastructure and expanded counseling services. The former special‑education classroom where four lives were taken has been sealed off, and a new mural by a local artist now decorates the hallway, symbolizing a “different day” and the community’s resilience.
Cook affirmed, “We’re going to ride this with you,” underscoring the district’s commitment to ongoing support and transparent communication with families.
Community healing continues
Nonprofits such as Hearts Unknown Education and Healing Reins have played vital roles, offering creative wellness programs and therapeutic riding experiences. Ybarrondo even founded a nonprofit to support Silver Rail families, partnering with these organizations to provide additional resources.
While some families have chosen homeschooling or relocation, the majority are returning, determined to reclaim the school’s motto, “Kindness matters,” and to demonstrate that the community will not be defined by violence.
Looking forward
The reopening marks the first step in a long journey of recovery for Bend. As the Three Sisters volcanic peaks loom over the town, the new mural reminds residents that change is possible and that the spirit of Silver Rail endures.
Original reporting: KRDO (Colorado Springs metro) — read the source article.
