AI Image
In Bend, focus on community and support as Silver Rail reopens
Oregon Public Broadcasting - OPB • • nation
Key Points:
- Silver Rail Elementary in Bend reopened nearly a month after a deadly shooting that killed three students and a teacher, with community events held to help families and staff mentally prepare for the return.
- The school district provided additional mental health support, substitute teachers, and sensory bags for students to ease the transition, while emphasizing healing and emotional readiness over immediate academic focus.
- Community efforts included organized events such as a flower-giving gathering and storytimes led by visiting librarian Mychal Threets, aiming to foster connection and support among students, families, and staff.
- Some Silver Rail families have chosen to transfer their children to other schools or homeschool, and several staff members are taking extended leave, but district officials expect about 90% of students to return.
- The district is planning a long-term resiliency hub to provide ongoing support to the community, recognizing the need for sustained recovery following the traumatic event.
