East High School

Posted March 22, 2023

A shooting occurred inside East High School which injured two adult faculty members. These two individuals were immediately transported to Denver Health. Local, state and federal law enforcement and our DPS Climate and Safety Department were immediately called to support and conduct their investigation of the incident. We cannot provide additional information regarding their investigation at this time, but we are working with the police to issue as much information as possible in the coming days.

Fortunately, no loss of life resulted from this incident. However, students and staff may feel uncomfortable with returning to school. We are committed to increasing safety and security measures by adding armed officers to each of our DPS comprehensive high schools beginning Thursday, March 23 for the remainder of the school year. 

We also would like to reiterate our commitment to the mental health, emotional wellness, and community support that we provide as a school district to all our affected families and staff. Your student may be experiencing feelings of anxiety and grief. The following signs may indicate that your student is having difficulty. Signs of stress may include:

  • Marked changes in usual ways of behaving, including decline in school productivity or mood changes
  • Changes in sleeping or eating problems
  • Disorganization
  • Withdrawing behaviors
  • Physical symptoms such as loss of appetite, stomach pain, headaches
  • Acting out behavior, including aggression
  • Tearfulness

In addition, click here for general tips and resources for parents and caregivers supporting students. Please do not hesitate to reach out to the school, or one of the community providers below:

NameNumberDescription
Colorado Crisis and Support Line844-493-8255, or Text TALK to 38255Resource for mental health, substance use, or emotional crisis help – information and referrals
National Suicide Hotline800-273-825524-hour toll-free confidential suicide prevention hotline
Second Wind Fund303-988-2645Provides free counseling to underinsured and uninsured youth that are suicidal
Trevor Project Hotline866-488-7386Crisis intervention and suicide prevention services for LGBTQ+ youth
Safe2Tell Colorado877-542-7233An anonymous way to report any concern impacting students (phone, app, online reporting options)
I Matter Coloradoimattercolorado.orgWill direct students to an online survey for their needs and connect them to a therapist 

If you have any concerns about your child or another student, please contact our mental health staff, or use the resources above. 

Please know that we are committed to supporting our entire community during this time.

Sincerely,

Dr. Alex Marrero
Superintendent