Twenty-five years have passed since the tragic events unfolded at Columbine High School, forever etching its name in the annals of school shootings. On April 20, 1999, two heavily armed shooters entered the school, leaving 12 classmates and a teacher dead, and numerous others injured. The massacre not only shocked Colorado and the nation but also served as a harrowing precursor to the wave of mass killings that have plagued the United States in the years since.
Michelle DiManna, a math teacher at Columbine High School, vividly recalls the moment when the screams of terrified students shattered the tranquility of the math office. Fleeing the building with her colleagues and pupils, DiManna found solace in the resiliency and hope that permeated the community in the aftermath of the tragedy. “You don’t really leave your family after trauma — and that is what Columbine is,” she said.
Despite the haunting memories, DiManna, now 53 years old, has dedicated her entire career to teaching at Columbine. She is one of 15 current staff members who were either employees or students at the time of the shooting. As the 25th anniversary of the shooting was marked by Jeffco Public Schools, officials held a media day to discuss the nationwide changes in school security that followed, including the implementation of anonymous reporting systems for students.
While much has changed in the past 25 years, one constant remains: the annual gathering at Columbine High School, where former Principal Frank DeAngelis, who led the school for nearly two decades, reads aloud the names of those who lost their lives on that fateful day. The ceremony serves as a solemn reminder of the lives cut short and the enduring hope that Columbine represents.
The community of Columbine has rallied together, demonstrating strength and resilience. Principal Scott Christy emphasizes the importance of Columbine being a place of hope for those who have experienced tragedy. Each year, on April 20, students and staff engage in volunteer projects to give back to the community, further solidifying the bond that has grown stronger over time.
For DiManna, the shooting forever altered her perception of routine drills and the anxiety that arises each April. However, the unwavering support from the community has been a constant source of comfort. Principal Christy regularly checks on the staff members who were present during the shooting, ensuring their well-being during times of distress.
The reason DiManna chose to remain at Columbine after the shooting is simple: she wanted to continue teaching. The community’s support has never wavered, and the sense of unity and care for one another remains strong. “We just pick each other up,” DiManna said. “You always knew if you were having one of those days, or something happened, you had someone to talk to.”
