RI FTC Statement on 2025 Wheeler School Qualifying Tournament

NE FIRST are deeply saddened by the news of the ongoing active shooter investigation that took the lives of two students at Brown University on Saturday, December 13, 2025. At the time, Rhode Island FIRST Tech Challenge was hosting a Qualifier Tournament just two blocks away at The Wheeler School in Providence.

We are grateful for the leadership and careful response of Rhode Island FIRST Tech Challenge, The Wheeler School and FIRST as all strive to support our community of students, mentors, educators, volunteers and parents.

Please see the entire statement from Rhode Island FIRST Tech Challenge:

RI FTC Statement on Emergency Situation at Wheeler School Qualifying Tournament

Resources

For Educators:

• RIDE School Mental Health Resources: https://ride.ri.gov/students-families/health-safety/school-mental-health

  • Learn more about RIDE’s school mental health initiatives and access resources related to a comprehensive school mental health system.

• Let It Out: https://www.letitoutri.com

  • Let It Out is a long-term program of classroom activities, ideas and tools to help teachers, school support staff, and families cope with the challenges our students face daily.

For Parents/Guardians:

• National Child Traumatic Stress Network: https://www.nctsn.org

  • Offers guides for parents, tips for talking to kids, and resources for understanding trauma from mass violence.

For All Attendees:

• Substance Abuse & Mental Health Services Administration: https://www.samhsa.gov/mental-health/trauma-violence

  • Provides tips for helping individuals cope after traumatic events and resources specific to school shootings.

• FIRST Headquarters: https://www.firstinspires.org/hubfs/web/about/policy/Mental-Health-Resources-2025_.pdf

  • FIRST has developed a Mental Health Resources document with guidance and links to organizations dedicated to youth mental health issues. This document is designed to provide coaches, mentors, teams, participants, and the wider community with tools to support young people when they need it most.

For Immediate Crisis Support:

• 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline: https://988lifeline.org

  • Dial or text 988 for free, confidential support available 24/7

• Crisis Text Line: https://www.crisistextline.org

  • Text HOME to 741741 for immediate support from a trained counselor

In Cases of Immediate Danger: If someone is at immediate risk, call local emergency services or 911