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First of all, Shawna's OK. In case any of you didn't hear about the terrible news today at Valparaiso High School, there was a student attack this morning. If not for the heroic actions of three teachers, eight injuries might have just been the start of more terrible things, like him going into Shawna's classroom that was only a few doors down. This is one of those thing's that you hear about in places like Columbine, but not here...not your hometown. I realize that I don't live in Valparaiso anymore, but I still feel like I'm there anyway. The reason why I'm still in Valparaiso mentally, is because Shawna's there. When Shawna's mom and I got divorced, I knew that my life was going to change in more ways than just not being with Mary anymore. I knew that I needed to do something, anything with my life...even if it just meant moving away from the place where I was raised...and the place and person that I helped raise. It's tough being away from Shawna, and it's especially tough today. I talk to her almost every day, and she's coming out here on spring break, but I still miss the one and only thing worth anything to me. She's a junior and she's expressed interest in going to Arizona State when she graduates, so for that, I realize the importance of staying here...but, I never thought of something like this happening. Shawna's taking EVERYTHING very well, but I'm not. To me, NOTHING will ever be the same ever again. I feel closer to God...

Sorry, but I just had to share this with ALL of you, I don't know why, but I feel better now...

I am glad your daughter is safe and she avoided this terrible incident. This situation is definitely not something that anyone thought would happen at VHS. However, I do remember all the drug problems when I went there. A lot of negative are kept silent to maintain the reputation of the school. Maybe this will demonstrate to administration that there are real problems in Valparaiso, and some solutions will actually be presented.

Moving away, especially in a situation such as yours, is never an easy transition. It will get better, and FFB will always be here to take you mind off it...

Glad to hear she is OK...

The violence in American schools is really out of hand. I really don't know why or what to do. Perhaps out culture is just too accustomed to violence. Interesting that TO and Nicollette Sheridan in a bath towel causes 100x more uproar than does a guy shown dead or gettinbg shot/stabbed during prime time (any cop show). Is sex really more harmful than violence?

empire wrote:Glad to hear she is OK...

The violence in American schools is really out of hand. I really don't know why or what to do. Perhaps out culture is just too accustomed to violence. Interesting that TO and Nicollette Sheridan in a bath towel causes 100x more uproar than does a guy shown dead or gettinbg shot/stabbed during prime time (any cop show). Is sex really more harmful than violence?

Couple of things: First, glad to know that Shawna's okay. One of the middle school teachers here has a daughter at VHS, and he was on pins and needles until he found out she was okay. Second, violence at school is still a very uncommon thing, statistically, and schools are a still a much safer place than home for most kids. Third, I agree that our priorities are way off base with regards to violence/sex. Read Tom Wolfe's (I think) essay, "Pornoviolence" for a good take on that subject. That's not to say that I'm "anything goes" with regards to nudity, but no one's ever been killed by a boobie.

I said it 4 years ago and I will say it again Valpo is Columbine. A upscale community with a major division in class and race. We are truly lucky that this is the worst that happened. I truly believe the school is headed for more trouble given the recent events and lack of parenting in this community. I sat in on a recent meeting with school administrators who were more worried about the influence of inner city kids on the general population. The problems at valpo high run deeper. Kids bringing guns and knives to school is nothing NEW!! I hope all your children remain safe and that they never have to worry about violence in school. Mel God Bless!!!