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A resolution marking the anniversary of The Covenant School shooting on March 27, 2023, honoring the victims, and recognizing the actions of the Covenant School staff, first responders, and the Nashville community.
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WHEREAS, one year ago on the morning of March 27, 2023, The Covenant School experienced a horrific attack that resulted in the deaths of nine-year-old Hallie Scruggs, nine-year-old Evelyn Dieckhaus, nine-year-old William Kinney, school custodian Mike Hill, substitute teacher Cynthia Peak, and Head of School Katherine Koonce; and
WHEREAS, the Metropolitan Nashville Police Department (“MNPD”) responded swiftly and heroically to the school. MNPD and the Metropolitan Nashville Fire Department also aided in the evacuation of children and staff, ensuring they reached safety; and
WHEREAS, in the aftermath of the tragedy, Brentwood Hills Church of Christ has served as a temporary site for The Covenant School, offering a place of refuge, safety, and learning to the Covenant Community; and
WHEREAS, the Metropolitan Council and all Nashvillians continue to grieve with and offer support to the families who lost loved ones in this senseless act of violence and send healing comfort to the Covenant School Community; and
WHEREAS, the Metropolitan Council remembers how the actions of Covenant staff and students on March 27, 2023, prevented further loss of life and protected hundreds of students; and
WHEREAS, the Covenant teachers and staff work every day to support and uplift their community as they grieve and rebuild their lives; and
WHEREAS, the Metropolitan Council again sends its deepest sympathies for the loss of members of The Covenant School family on this first anniversary.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE COUNCIL OF THE METROPOLITAN GOVERNMENT OF NASHVILLE AND DAVIDSON COUNTY:
Section 1. That the Metropolitan Council hereby goes on record as continuing to honor the memory of Hallie Scruggs, Evelyn Dieckhaus, William Kinney, Mike Hill, Cynthia Peak, and Katherine Koonce who were killed at The Covenant School on March 27, 2023.
Section 2. That the Metropolitan Council further expresses its support to The Covenant School, all who continue to grieve the loss of these six beautiful lives, and everyone affected by this senseless tragedy.
Section 3. That the Metropolitan Council again recognizes The Covenant School and its staff for its actions on March 27, 2023, to keep students, faculty, and staff safe, and its prior actions to prepare students and staff for this unthinkable event.
Section 4. That the Metropolitan Council commends first responders for their quick actions and assistance to The Covenant School students and staff on that day.
Section 5. That the Metropolitan Council further commends the Nashville community for their ongoing support, concern, and care of the Covenant community as they work to rebuild and honor the lives of those lost.
Section 6. This Resolution shall take effect from and after its adoption, the welfare of The Metropolitan Government of Nashville and Davidson County requiring it.