In recent years, the alarming increase in school shootings has cast a shadow over the safety of educational institutions across the United States. The tragic events at Sandy Hook Elementary in 2012 and Robb Elementary in 2022 were wake-up calls, but the frequency and severity of these incidents have only escalated since then. 

“Before school starts, all staff have a mandatory safety training with the district police about what to do during different incidents, such as school shooters or if there is someone on campus who isn’t supposed to be,” history teacher Garrett Suttle said. “During the year, we have to conduct mandatory lock down drills as well.”

As of 2024, there have been over 100 school shootings reported, a stark increase from previous years. According to the National Center for Education Statistics, the number of school shootings in the first half of 2024 has already surpassed the total number of incidents in 2023. This disturbing trend highlights the urgent need for comprehensive measures to ensure the safety of students and staff. 

“Honestly I feel less safe knowing that schools are becoming less vulnerable with these types of dangerous activities,” senior Fernanda Ruiz said. “Its kinda scary you know? That you could be next and you never know when something could happen and that’s really sad.”

The Sandy Hook Elementary School shooting in December 2012, where 20 children and six adults lost their lives, was one of the deadliest school shootings in U.S. history. A decade later, the Robb Elementary School shooting in Uvalde, Texas, claimed the lives of 21 people, including 19 children. These heartbreaking events should have spurred significant changes, yet the frequency of such incidents has only grown. 

“All students and staff are required to wear ID badges at all times as well as all school visitors,” Amy Rogers said. “Our front entrance and all our exterior doors are fortified, and we’ve just got lots of eyes all over as well with training for students and staff for when things aren’t as they should be.”

The increase in school shootings has led to a significant shift in how educational institutions approach safety and security. Schools across the nation are implementing comprehensive safety protocols, including regular drills and enhanced surveillance systems. These measures aim to prepare students and staff for potential emergencies, ensuring that everyone knows how to respond swiftly and effectively.

“I find it so scary and sad that this is the reality of today’s world,” junior Maria Spencer said. “It’s anxious coming to school knowing that schools have become a bigger target for these types of events and that nothing is getting done to protect us and all one is left with is the thought of ‘when will it stop?’”

As the community moves forward, it is crucial to address the root causes of the violence and implement effective solutions. Enhanced security measures, mental health support and stricter gun control laws are essential steps in preventing future tragedies. The safety of the children should be a top priority, and it is up to everyone to advocate for change. In conclusion, the rising number of school shootings in 2024 is a stark reminder that more must be done to protect the schools. By spreading awareness and pushing for meaningful reforms, could be a possible solution to these problems for future generations.

“I would say to be aware of your surroundings, if something looks strange then report it,” Montgomery County Sheriff’s Deputy Tiffany Neal said. “We are definitely at a time where everyone is on high alert so it is important to be aware of what we say and do and not to make flippant threats even if it is just a joke.”

This story was originally published on The Voice of the Wildkats on September 19, 2024.