x
Breaking News
More () »

Crisis counselors helping teens through gun violence inside schools

On Nov. 3, 15-year-old KIPP Indy student Devin Gilbert was shot and killed in the school's parking lot.

INDIANAPOLIS — When students at KIPP Indy Legacy School returned on Monday, a team of crisis counselors through Indianapolis Public Schools were at the school to provide support for the ones impacted by the shooting at the school.

On Nov. 3, 15-year-old KIPP Indy student Devin Gilbert was shot and killed in the school's parking lot. Another 15-year-old was arrested on a preliminary charge of murder in the shooting.

Kimble Richardson, with Community Health, creates crisis response teams like the one with IPS, and he said there is a need for the service more than ever.

"We do not want any generation to think this is normal. It's not," Richardson said. "It's terrible, and we need to make sure there are some things in place to prevent it or at least know you can get support."

Richardson has gone into schools and said it's an overwhelming feeling to hear the emotions the students share. 

"As a father, as a citizen and as a professional counselor, I want our children to feel safe," Richardson said.

The services the crisis response teams provide are changed based on age and how serious the situation is. They also provide time for the staff to come and talk because they know gun violence impacts them.

"When you have a shooting in any capacity, there is absolutely a ripple effect, and especially when it's in a school setting," Richardson said.

With youth gun violence at an all-time high, Richardson wants the conversation his teams have in schools to go out to parents and community members to keep it going.

Before You Leave, Check This Out