John,

February 14, 2018, our lives changed forever at Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School. 

Just minutes before a preventable tragedy struck, we were in the same classroom. Schools are supposed to be safe havens for learning, but that day, we were tethered by a tragedy no one should ever have to endure.

Back then, we were teacher and student, but today, we are friends and partners in the movement to end gun violence. Jaclyn leads March For Our Lives, demanding systemic change from lawmakers. Ivy returned to the classroom as a teacher and now serves on the Teachers Unify Crisis Intervention & Support Team, providing trauma-informed care.

We both live in DC now, and whether we’re getting brunch or seeing a show together, we’re grateful for the support from a fellow survivor.

As the anniversary of the Parkland shooting approaches, we are struck by a heavy, unchanging truth: The onus of school safety continues to fall almost entirely on the shoulders of those inside the building. Students are still mapping exits in their heads between classes. Teachers are still keeping their voices steady during drills so their students don't absorb the fear adults are holding.

We are tired of a system that asks teachers to be first responders and students to be survivors. That is why our organizations are coming together.