By Sharon Bernstein

(Reuters) – Two days before Tuesday’s terrorist attack, Robb Elementary School, Uvalde, Texas was celebrating their summer vacation.

According to recent Facebook posts, the students had already visited the zoo as well as participated in an exhibit of gifted and talented people. Tuesday, the awards day according to the calendar was when students were encouraged to wear nice clothing and bright shoes in keeping with the theme of “footloose and fancy”.

At 11:43 AM, however, a Facebook post was made: “Please be aware that Robb Elementary has been placed under lockdown status due to the gunshots around the area.” “The students and staff are safe within the building,” it stated.

A second message was then sent: “There’s an active shooter at Robb Elementary.” The police are on the scene.

Parents were asked to leave by school administrators. Nearly 90% of the school’s second- through fourth grade students are Hispanic.

It was then that officials revealed the shocking details: An 18-year-old gunman shot at the school and killed 18 children as well as one adult.

All over the world, messages of outrage and prayers were posted.

Susan Vanderwier from Indiana said that “our hearts are breaking for families who have been affected” on the school’s Facebook page.

School district stated that the elementary school was located in the area where “Live. Learn. Love. “Lead” will remain shut for the end of the school year.