38 fatalities. 116 injuries. This has transpired in the past 10 months, all from school shootings. When people hear about this devastating statistic, they often do not react with surprise or disgust; rather, they go about their days as if it has become normalised in our society.
According to the Rockefeller Institute of Government, 98% of schools in the nation prepare for the small, yet very possible chance of a shooting taking place in their classrooms. Many may wonder if these drills truly make any difference in the fatalities that occur in the event of a shooting.
Although death in these situations may not be fully avoidable, teaching young students what to do if this were to become a reality is essential. In times of distress and panic, simply knowing where to go can alleviate stress for both students and their educators.
During these secure campus drills, students are often taught to lock the classroom door, shut the blinds and hide under desks. These precautions may seem meaningless or unnecessary; however, if this were to ever occur, these frequent practices may save lives.
Although even in the scenario where students have mastered the preparation needed to be “safe” on this occasion, death cannot be fully prevented. Classrooms cannot physically protect all students, even when these drills have been practiced. However, knowing where to go and what to do can increase the likelihood of survival.
Ultimately, giving students the information they need to understand how to respond to a tragic and unfortunately common event can change lives. People often say, “This won’t happen at our school”, or “we don’t have to worry about this”, but in reality, school shootings can happen anywhere, unexpectedly. No one and no school is safe, sadly.
Secure campus drills are essential in the case of a shooting. These drills can save lives and relieve students and staff from extreme anxiety. In the tragic case where students are injured or pass away, they will at least be in a more peaceful and calm state than in havoc and commotion.
Society has evolved into a place where no real action has been taken to prevent the likelihood of school shootings. Some do not pay attention to the matter unless they are directly affected, and this needs to change. Whatever we as a society decide to do to protect students from the horrifying reality of shootings, action needs to be taken.
