Middle schoolers surround you as you walk towards Ms. In-Network's Hallway. It's quieter than it was when you were here yesterday observing classrooms. Yesterday, students were texting, waving arms, hugging, yelling across the hall at one another, walking arm-in-arm, flashing pictures with cell phones, and laughing. The energy in the hallway was even a bit overwhelming, come to think of it, as yesterday was your first time back in a middle school since you were a middle schooler.

You sense that something is wrong at this mid-sized suburban school that houses students in grades 6-8. In fact, you feel as though something is very wrong, as you notice a heavier quiet in the hallway. Students aren't rushing about the hall socializing; instead, most are huddled in groups of ten or so, many looking at one another's phones. Some students are even crying. Many are leaning on and hugging one another.

You stop and ask a student you introduced yourself to yesterday, Jack, what is going on. He replies with a sigh, "Shooting at the high school. Just now. Everybody's freaking. My brother goes there, but he's home sick today. Thank God."

You reply, "Wow, I'm so sorry," and walk towards Ms. In-Network's classroom. As you do so, the principal's voice is heard over the intercom system: "Students, I need all of your full attention at this point. You are in a safe place and we need to keep it safe. For this reason, head directly to the class you are to be in at this time. Please do this now, as our school's safety depends on your cooperation. We are going to do our very best to keep you informed of information as it becomes available. Now, head to your classroom now, please."

Paraprofessionals and teachers corral students towards their room, and all of a sudden, you feel like a middle schooler yourself. You're scared, unsure, and don't know what to do.