Muslim students and parents say Poway Unified’s silence after mosque shooting deepened trauma; board pledges review

Multiple Muslim students and parents told the Poway Unified School District board on June 15 that a May 18 shooting at the Islamic Center of San Diego left families and children traumatized — and that the district’s silence afterward compounded their pain.

"We lost three beloved community members and countless families continue to grieve," said Fakira Anwar, a PUSD parent and member of Spark, a parent‑led initiative that advocates for Muslim families. Anwar said some schools and staff reached out to families, "but many families experienced the silence from district leadership and elected board members as deeply painful."

Student Sofia Warsi, a rising junior at Del Norte High School and a representative of the Muslim Student Association, urged consistent, visible acknowledgements after acts of hate and violence. "If the district chooses to publicly acknowledge acts of violence and hate that impact one community, then it should do so consistently for all communities," Warsi said. "Students notice when compassion is distributed unevenly."

Parents described frantic, fearful minutes as the shooting unfolded and said they expected clearer, faster district communication. "Many PUSD students have siblings, relatives, friends and deep connections to Bright Horizon Academy and the Islamic Center," said Albera Warsi, noting that some families "were desperately trying to determine whether their loved ones were safe."

Those public comments pressed the board to commit to steps beyond expressions of sympathy. Nadia Khan, a member of Spark, asked for "timely communication during incidents affecting students," "clear guidance to schools on supporting impacted families," and "culturally and religiously responsive trainings for counselors and staff."

Board members responded later in the meeting. Board member Gouverette said the district should consider a policy or consistent process for issuing statements so leaders can respond more quickly "when these types of events come up." Chair (board president) acknowledged the gap: "I am sorry for any family that felt forgotten or that no one cared," the chair said, adding, "I didn't understand the depth of the community's pain, and I think that's what you were sharing." The chair said he would "try to do better."

The evening’s comments produced no immediate formal action; public comment is subject to Brown Act limits, and the board staff noted that items not on the agenda are referred to staff for follow‑up. Multiple speakers offered to collaborate with the district on culturally informed support and training.

What’s next: Board members said they will consider reviewing communications protocols, look for ways to engage student leaders and community partners in crisis response, and follow up via staff reports or e‑mail. The meeting closed without a formal motion tied to the mosque shooting comments.

Ending: The board concluded its June meeting after approving consent items and other agenda business, and said it would return Aug. 6 at 6 p.m.