A Tragedy Too Close to Home – It’s Time for Real Solutions

Yesterday, tragedy struck Abundant Life Christian School in my hometown.

A 15-year-old student walked into school, took the lives of a teacher, a classmate, and then her own. Six others are clinging to life.

A second-grader called 911 to report the shooting. Let that sink in. A child—barely older than my own kids—had to make a call no child should ever make.

As a parent, my heart breaks. As a leader, I can’t stay silent.

This wasn’t a distant headline. This was here.

• In my town.
• At a school where friends and loved ones send their kids.
• In a place where safety should never be a question.

And yet, here we are. Again.

What’s the Root Cause?

The conversation in the wake of these tragedies always jumps to “solutions.” But too often, we focus on symptoms instead of causes.

Guns are instruments, like spoons or keyboards. They’re not the problem—we are.

• A society without consequences.
• Hate and isolation taking root in young hearts.
• Overprescribed medications and declining mental health.
• A breakdown in family and community values.
• A loss of purpose, love, and connection.

When life no longer feels sacred, darkness fills the void. That’s where the root cause lies.

Real Solutions, Not Political Posturing

We can’t afford to politicize our children’s safety. This isn’t about left or right—it’s about protecting our kids. Period.

One idea I’ve championed for years: empower our veterans.

Here’s how:

• Place two trained, well-paid resource officers in every school across the country.
• Tap into our mission-driven veterans—men and women who understand sacrifice, purpose, and protection.

The numbers work:

• 131,000 schools. Two officers per school.
• At $85,000 a year, this would cost $25 billion in year one—a fraction of our national budget.

Not only would we secure our schools, but we’d give our veterans the mission-driven work they deserve.

It’s a solution that starts saving lives today.

Prayers Inspire Action

There’s been a lot of noise online dismissing “thoughts and prayers.” Let me be clear:

• Prayer matters.
• Prayer isn’t inaction—it’s what fuels action.

We can’t let the loudest voices shame us into silence. Prayer brings peace, clarity, and strength when we need it most.

And from that strength, we step up.

• We fight for solutions.
• We stand for what’s right.
• We protect the most precious gift we have: our children.

Where Do We Go From Here?

Our kids shouldn’t go to school in fear. Teachers shouldn’t face their classrooms filled with anxiety. Parents shouldn’t lose sleep wondering if today will be “the day.”

It’s time to step up:

• Start the conversations that matter.
• Focus on solutions, not division.
• Rebuild the values that make life sacred.

If we’re serious about solving this, we need to address all the causes—mental health, family breakdowns, societal influences, and yes, school security.

This isn’t someone else’s problem. It’s ours.

To the families, friends, and community affected by this tragedy—our prayers are with you. Our hearts are broken alongside yours.

To the leaders and first responders who stepped up yesterday—thank you for your courage and strength.

And to every parent reading this: let’s take action. Together.

Inspire & Impact,

Josh Kosnick,

Kairos Coaching & Consulting

P.S. If you’re ready to be part of the solution, hit reply. Share your thoughts, your ideas, or just your heart. This is a conversation we need to have, and it starts with us.