Matt DeBoer, the Principal of Annunciation Catholic School in Minneapolis, delivered an emotional address outside the school on August 27, 2025, following a tragic shooting that left the community in shock. He urged swift action to guarantee support for the young victims and their families. He declared that we can’t allow this kind of tragedy to happen again, and we have to work together to make sure of that.
DeBoer said community engagement has been a key lesson learned since the shooting. He urged local residents to go beyond mere words of support, stating, “We, as a community, have a responsibility to make sure that no child, no parent, no teacher ever has to experience what we’ve experienced today. Ever again.” He called on all of us to adopt the motto “Never again.” In his op-ed, Boggs stressed the urgency of building a more secure environment for students and educators.
During his speech, DeBoer acknowledged and thanked the teachers of Annunciation Catholic School. He rightly praised their actions as “heroes,” having displayed unimaginable bravery and dedication. Their heroic response started within seconds from the first shots fired, and I want to join you all in commending their rapid action,” he said. He stated, “Within seconds of this situation beginning, our teachers were heroes.”
With deep compassion, DeBoer continued, stating that he felt sad for all the students involved in the attack. To any of our students and families and staff who are listening right now, I love you. You are the bravest of brave, and I deeply apologize that this was something we faced together today,” he continued. He paid tribute to what he termed “angels.” He requested continuing support through prayers for those who are still in treatment.
“When you pray, move your feet.” This memorable phrase summarized his message and underscored that thoughts aren’t enough—we need to do more than pray or say our condolences.
In his closing remarks, DeBoer both acknowledged the toll of the shooting with an eye towards the hope of the future. “We can’t change the past, but we can do something about the future,” he stated. He ended on a note of resilience, asserting, “This is a nightmare, but we call our staff the dream team, and we will recover from this. We will rebuild from this.”
The community is still trying to recover from the violent act. As they grieve for the lives lost, they come together to provide comfort and care for each other. The call for reform resounds all over Minneapolis as citizens, veterans, parents, and children alike work to protect the safety of schools and avoid similar tragedies in the future.
