(submitted photo/ NLSD #113)

By Nicole Reis

Dene Strong

La Loche school demonstrating strength after 2016 tragedy

Jan 24, 2020 | 12:43 PM

A moment of silence on Wednesday honored those lost and injured at the fourth anniversary of the school shootings in La Loche

Jason Young, Director of Education with Northern Lights School Division 113 told meadowlakeNOW, staff and students have good days and bad.

“It was a time to stop and reflect and for us to never forget what happened and to remember those that were impacted,” he said.

Young said students and staff are doing their best to move forward but that has not been easy.

“We’ve been taking things one day at a time. Sometimes there’s progress and sometimes you have to take a step back,” he said. “Our focus is on supporting staff and students. I was thankful for the leadership provided by the school to host this event and to pause to remember those who were affected.”

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(Submitted/ NLSD #113)

Young said since the tragedy, teachers and staff provide supports to students in classrooms and all are healing together.

“We get our strength from [students], it’s them that we serve. To me, the students seem well or on the road to being well. When I see them smiling, that warms my heart because I want to see them be happy,” he said.

Prime Minister Justin Trudeau issued a statement Wednesday honoring the anniversary of the La Loche shooting:

“On this day, four years ago, the community of La Loche, Saskatchewan, was struck by a senseless attack that killed four Canadians and seriously injured seven more.

“Today, we remember the victims, young people who were full of promise and potential. To the families, friends, and neighbours who carry with them immeasurable grief, we offer our deepest sympathies and support. We also pay tribute to the first responders, Indigenous leaders, and front-line service providers whose courage and professionalism saved lives at Dene High School, and prevented further tragedy that day.

“This terrible loss will never be forgotten. But as the years pass, the people of La Loche will be defined by their determination to heal and rebuild, and their care for each other.

“In 2019, based on recommendations from the community, the federal government provided funding to continue support for cultural and language programs, on-the-land outdoor learning activities, and mental health services for students at Dene High School. Across the country, we are committed to working with the provinces and territories on strengthening gun control to keep our communities – and our children – safe.

“In La Loche, I have met remarkable young people who refuse to let their dreams and hopes be extinguished by this senseless tragedy. Their strength reminds us that even out of darkness, hope will find a way. Every day, they show us the way forward.”

—

nicole.reis@jpbg.ca

Twitter: @nicolereis7722