Over 40 shots were fired in the East High School’s student parking lot, on Monday March 7, 2022, at 2:47 p.m., leaving two former East High students, Kemery Ortega and Jessica Lopez-Torres injured. While another former East High student, Jose David Lopez was killed in the gun fire. Since the shooting, students and staff are left wondering what exactly has changed over the year. Here are Principal Jill Versteeg’s thoughts one year after the shooting.  

Why do you think school shootings are increasing? What possible solutions would you suggest? 

The rise in school shootings across the state is caused by a variety of reasons. Young people’s emotional health is one of them. East High School is incredibly fortunate to have six counselors and school-based therapists, but it’s not enough to meet the needs of students and families. There needs to be more resources to support the youth to be involved in activities at younger ages and make them accessible for families. Research suggests that the more students are engaged in activities, their communities and within their schools, less violence occurs. 

What steps have been taken to prevent this from happening again? 

Many steps have been taken to prevent this from happening again. District safety teams continue to review data and determine safety protocols. More cameras were added around the school, and public safety is in the building and parking lot often. DMPD has also partnered with East and the district more about having more awareness in the community when events occur and steps, we might need to take to keep the school safe. “Buildings are also getting emergency radios that will be direct patch to 911 dispatch should an emergency arise,” Versteeg said.