Schools are meant to be a safe haven for students to learn and grow. Unfortunately, in recent years, schools have become targets for mass shootings and other violent incidents. In order to combat this, some schools have turned to armed security guards as a solution to keep their students safe. While some may argue that having armed security guards is unnecessary or even dangerous, the evidence shows that armed security guards do indeed make public schools safer.
Decrease in Crime Rates
One of the most significant benefits of having armed security guards in public schools is the decrease in crime rates. A study by the National Center for Education Statistics found that schools with armed security guards had a lower rate of violent incidents than schools without them. According to the study, schools with armed security guards had 0.3 incidents per 1,000 students, while schools without armed security had 1.4 incidents per 1,000 students. This shows that having armed security guards can significantly reduce the number of violent incidents that occur in public schools.
Moreover, the presence of armed security guards in schools can deter potential attackers from targeting the school in the first place. Knowing that there are armed security guards on campus can make a potential attacker think twice before even attempting to carry out an attack. This creates a safer environment for students, teachers, and staff members.
Response Time
Another benefit of having armed security guards is their ability to respond quickly to threats. In a situation where an active shooter is on campus, every second counts. Having armed security guards on campus means that they can respond immediately, potentially saving lives. According to a report by the Department of Justice, the average response time for law enforcement to arrive on the scene of a shooting is 18 minutes. In contrast, armed security guards are already on campus and can respond in a matter of seconds. This can make a significant difference in the outcome of a violent incident.
Furthermore, armed security guards are trained to handle emergency situations, including active shooter situations. They have experience and knowledge on how to neutralize the threat and minimize casualties. This training and experience can make a significant difference in the outcome of a violent incident.
Safer Learning Environment
Having armed security guards in public schools can also create a safer learning environment for students. When students feel safe, they are more likely to focus on their studies and perform better academically. Additionally, having armed security guards can help students feel more secure and confident, knowing that there are trained professionals who can protect them in case of danger. Furthermore, armed security can act as positive role models for students. They can engage with students and build relationships with them, which can lead to better communication and trust. This can create a more positive school culture, where students feel safe and supported.
Conclusion
In conclusion, armed security guards do indeed make public schools safer. The evidence shows that having armed security guards can decrease crime rates, improve response times, create a safer learning environment for students, and even deter potential attackers. While some may argue that having armed security guards is unnecessary or even dangerous, the benefits far outweigh the risks. As schools continue to face the threat of violence, it is important to consider all possible solutions, including the use of armed security guards.
Petition
If you are interested in having armed security guards in all of the Walled Lake Schools, you can sign this petition here: https://www.wlcpr.org/safeschoolspetition
Sources:
National Center for Education Statistics. (2020). Indicators of School Crime and Safety: 2019. U.S. Department of Education.
National Center for Education Statistics. (2023). Fast Facts: School Safety and Security Measures. https://nces.ed.gov/fastfacts/display.asp?id=334
U.S. Department of Justice. (2018). Police Response Time to Active Shooter Incidents.
National Center for Education Statistics. Percentage of public schools with security staff. https://nces.ed.gov/programs/digest/d18/tables/dt18_233.70.asp
Facts about Armed Guards and School Statistics. https://getsafeandsound.com/2021/10/facts-about-armed-guards-in-schools/
Interesting that the WL high schools have EMPTY police cars in the parking lots AND no police officers inside the buildings. What's the point? What a waste of resources and $$. Where's the common sense.
Gun Free Zones are Kill Zones. Educators far and wide do not care enough about your child to establish common sense guidelines to protect them. They are either missguided ,misinformed or simply do not give a damn. I blame local officials as well. Why the schools are not, at the very least, patrolled by our tax payer employees ( the police) is beyond me. I know there is more money to be made with speed traps but I would find that hard to explain to a parent who needlessly lost a child because they were being protected in a Gun Free Zone by Piss Pots.
We live within Huron Valley Schools. Our Grand children go to Walled Lake Schools. Can we sign your petition??