Keeping Schools Safe for Students and Educators

Back-to-school anxiety is real for students, parents and educators. One factor that may be contributing to our worry is gun violence. We’ve all been hearing that firearms are now the leading cause of death for children in the US, surpassing motor vehicle accidents. It is terrifying to think about shootings happening in our schools. Fortunately, we don’t have to sit around fearing that our school is next. There are steps we can take TODAY to dramatically reduce the risk of these tragedies in our homes, our schools and our community.

Safe gun storage is the most effective tool we have to reduce gun violence.

Safely securing firearms in our homes can prevent unintentional shootings, gun suicide AND acquiring a gun for a school shooting. Even the National Rifle Association (NRA) encourages and promotes safe gun storage. Gun reform is a politically divisive issue but everyone can agree on keeping our children safe with secure gun storage.

Be Smart of Kids is a great resource in learning how to safely secure firearms. Their acronym is an easy way to remember and share this information. Sharing this information widely within your community is the most effective way to keep our schools and community safe. Ask your school’s superintendent to share this information. Ask other parents about the presence of firearms in their homes.

I’ve created a downloadable guide for more action steps we can take TODAY in reducing gun violence, just in time for back-to-school. Share it widely!