Dear Kern High School District Community,
Our District community is grieving today following the tragic events that occurred Friday evening at Independence High School.
During Friday night’s football game, a shooting occurred on the Independence campus that resulted in the death of a 17-year-old. The Bakersfield Police Department has since announced the arrest of a 15-year-old in connection with the shooting, and the investigation remains ongoing.
There are simply no adequate words when a young life is lost. On behalf of the Kern High School District and our Board of Trustees, I extend our deepest condolences to the family and loved ones of the young person who died. Our hearts are also with the students, staff, families, and members of our community who witnessed or were affected by this devastating event.
Friday night should have been an evening of school spirit, friendship, and community—a time for students and families to come together and celebrate the beginning of a new school year. Instead, an act of violence forever changed the lives of those who were there and has deeply affected our entire District.
In the moments following the shooting, Independence High School staff and members of the Kern High School District Police Department responded immediately to protect students and spectators and to assist law enforcement and emergency personnel. I am immensely grateful to our employees for their courage, professionalism, and unwavering commitment to the young people entrusted to our care. I am equally grateful to the Bakersfield Police Department, emergency medical personnel, and all of the first responders who acted quickly and decisively Friday evening.
The District is working closely with law enforcement as its investigation continues, and we will carefully review the circumstances surrounding Friday night’s events.
We also recognize that an event such as this can have a profound emotional impact, particularly on those who were present Friday night. In the days ahead, counseling and other support services will be available to students and staff who need them. We encourage our families to talk with their children, listen to their concerns, and reach out to their school if additional support or help is needed.
At a moment like this, we are reminded that a school district is far more than its campuses and classrooms. We are a community. When one of our schools hurts, we all hurt. And when tragedy strikes, we come together to care for one another.
We will face the difficult days ahead together with compassion for those who are grieving, support for our students and staff, and an unwavering commitment to the safety and well-being of every student we serve.
Sincerely,
Dr. Michael Zulfa
Superintendent