Winfield Public Schools has responded following Cowley Post reporting this week on previous concerns involving Ronald Williams Jr. and his family, including interactions involving the children’s schooling.
Williams has been identified by authorities as the gunman in the Winfield shooting Tuesday that left him and five family members dead. Cowley Post has reported that Williams had been involved in previous incidents that raised concerns among people who had contact with the family, including during periods when the children attended school in Winfield.
In its response, USD 465 said the children killed in the shooting were not enrolled in the district at the time of their deaths. The district acknowledged, however, that Winfield school employees had previously taught, known or cared for the children.
Katie Mays, USD 465 director of public information, provided the following statement. It is being published unedited and in its entirety:
Winfield Public Schools is deeply saddened by the tragedy that has impacted our community. Our hearts are with the families and loved ones who are facing an unimaginable loss, as well as with all those who are grieving and affected by this tragedy.
The children who lost their lives were not current USD 465 students. However, a tragedy of this magnitude is felt throughout our entire community. Our students, staff, and families are connected in many ways, and we recognize that this loss may have a profound impact on current students and staff, including those who previously taught, knew or cared for the children.
As we welcome students back to school, USD 465 is focused on providing a safe, caring and supportive environment for every student. We understand that people process grief and difficult circumstances differently, and our staff will be attentive to students and colleagues who may need additional support.
School counselors and social workers are available to support students as they navigate the emotions and questions that may come with this tragedy. Staff members are also being reminded to take care of themselves and one another and to connect individuals with appropriate resources when additional support is needed.
We encourage families to stay connected with their children, provide space for them to process their feelings and reach out to their school if they believe their child could benefit from additional support.
Our hearts are with the families experiencing this unimaginable loss and with everyone in the Winfield community who is grieving. We ask that the privacy of the families and those closest to them be respected during this extraordinarily difficult time.
Winfield Public Schools will continue to stand alongside our students, staff, families and community as we navigate this difficult time together.
