Seven years after the tragedy that forever changed Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School (MSD) in Parkland, FL, the community continues to demonstrate resilience, strength, and determination. Last summer marked a pivotal moment in that journey—the long-awaited demolition of the building where the shooting on February 14, 2018, took place. For many, its removal represents more than just a physical change; it’s a profound step toward emotional recovery.
Returning to my alma mater, I was struck by the balance of progress and the enduring scars of loss. Principal Michelle Kefford, a member of the NASSP Principal Recovery Network (PRN), stepped into her role in July 2019 and has since played a critical role in leading the school through this delicate process, ensuring the focus remains on healing and support.
“The building was a constant trauma reminder,” Kefford told me. “Having that building where 17 lives were taken, 17 others injured, constantly present without the ability to get away from it—it’s horrifying. Even some of my staff wouldn’t go past it.”
The demolition itself was a carefully planned process designed to minimize the emotional toll on students, staff, and the broader community.
“We were really worried about the whole process,” Kefford said. “Instead of an implosion or it just being knocked down, it was a claw-like machine that ate away at pieces of the building over a series of weeks. We made sure to remove the furniture and classroom items first, so no one had to see a wall come down with desks still inside. That visual would’ve been very activating.”
Kefford’s trauma-informed leadership extends to how she speaks about these experiences, using the term “activator” rather than “trigger” because of the latter’s firearm association. She also mentioned how instances such as helicopters flying overhead or fire alarms can be retraumatizing for staff and students. “For years, we did fire drills without alarms and used the intercom instead… During lockdown drills, I walk them through the process, reassuring them the whole time.”
For Kefford, thoughtful leadership has been central to navigating the dual challenges of leading a large high school while supporting a community in recovery.
“When I was called to take over as principal, I knew it would be a challenging leadership role,” she said. “I had no idea how challenging because you’re navigating the regular tasks of running a very large high school while also leading a community through the aftermath of tragedy.”
Her compassion shines through initiatives like “Midweek Muffins with Michelle,” where she creates space for staff to connect and recharge. “I like alliteration,” she said with a laugh. “These breakfasts are a chance for staff to come together, give each other a hug, and empower themselves to get through the day.”
The journey of healing is ongoing, especially as new tragedies reignite painful memories. “My staff is really retraumatized whenever another shooting occurs,” she said. “So, I always put out a communication to remind them we’re here and have resources.”
As an alumna of Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School, it’s both heartbreaking and inspiring to witness the resilience of this community. The building may be gone, but the lessons of love, strength, and leadership remain deeply rooted. Kefford’s continued dedication to fostering progress and connection shines through in her work. She even made my inner teenager light up by taking me for a tour on the staff golf cart, sharing tidbits about the school and pointing out memorials on campus, such as the #NeverAgain Eagle Sculpture and the brick structure that pays tribute to all 17 victims. Along the way, she joked with students as we drove by, calling them by first name and asking about specific exams—a true testament to the bonds she has built within the MSD family.
1 Comment
This article is very well written as read by someone affected by the tragedy in our neighborhood. The article is both an emotional and retrospective of the events that occurred at Marjory Stoneman Douglas high school. Also, a positive outlook that we must continue to have to carry on. Well written.