Living Through the Unthinkable: A Student’s Perspective
Speaker: Reichen Posey

In this deeply personal and emotional presentation, Reichen Posey shares his story of surviving the Sandy Hook tragedy—offering a rare and powerful perspective from someone who lived through it as a child. At just seven years old, Reichen was inside a first-grade classroom when the unthinkable happened. Now as a young adult, he reflects on that day, the long and difficult path of healing, and the lessons he’s learned along the way.

Reichen opens up about what it was like to experience fear no child should ever know, how trauma shaped his childhood,and the ongoing journey of recovery. He offers an honest look at what helped him most—supportive community, mental health resources, and the unwavering love of his family—and shares insights into what young survivors need as they heal.

This is more than a story of survival—it’s a story of resilience, hope, and purpose. Reichen brings a compelling voice tothe conversation around school safety and mental health, urging us all to prioritize not just physical security, but the emotional well-being of every student.

Attendees will leave with a renewed commitment to creating safe, compassionate environments where children can thrive—and a reminder that even after tragedy, healing and hope are possible.

When the Unthinkable Happens: A Mother and Son’s Journey of Survival and Strength
Speakers: Reichen Posey, Carly Posey

In this deeply personal and emotional presentation, a mother and her son share their story of surviving the Sandy Hook tragedy—one from inside a first-grade classroom, the other from the heart of every parent’s worst fear. Together, they open up about the unimaginable day that changed their family forever and how they’ve worked, side by side, to heal, rebuild, and find purpose in the years since.

From the son’s perspective, hear what it was like to be just seven years old, facing fear no child should ever know, and the long road of recovery that followed. From the mother’s side, experience the terror of waiting, the overwhelming relief of reunion, and the complex journey of guiding a child—her other children–and herself—through
trauma and grief.

Together, they share what has helped them most: the power of community, the importance of mental health support, and how hope can slowly return, even after the darkest moments. They reflect on what it means to truly protect our children—not just with secure buildings and safety drills, but with care, connection, and the courage to prioritize well-being in our schools.

More than just a story of survival, this is a story of love, resilience, and the determination to make sure no other family has to endure what theirs did. This presentation is a call to action to come together, to listen, and to build schools and communities that are not only prepared but deeply committed to supporting every child and every family—every single day.

Attendees will leave with a renewed belief in the strength of the human spirit, practical insights for creating safer, more compassionate schools, and a reminder that even after tragedy, healing and hope are possible.