As an educator, I entered the teaching profession driven by a genuine love for children and the rewarding experience of guiding them through their learning journey. Once a student steps into my classroom, they become part of my extended family, and I value the bonds we create. I embrace each of my students, even those who may require a bit more attention and care. It’s common for my students to refer to me as “Mom,” a title I carry with great responsibility, particularly since I have my own children.
However, the reality is that I am not a soldier or a law enforcement officer; I am a teacher, a mentor, and at times, a second mother. Yet, I find myself facing the grim prospect of being on the front lines in an active shooter situation. After undergoing active shooter training, where I participated in several simulations, I was struck by the danger I willingly put myself—and my family—in every day.
Active Shooter Training Experience
The first scenario was sudden and without warning: we were essentially sitting ducks. In the second, despite knowing about an active shooter, many of us, myself included, were still shot while hiding. The third simulation involved barricading the door, which my group attempted using lab tables and chairs, but our efforts only bought us a minute before the “shooter” got through. The fourth scenario required us to fight back, and a few brave individuals lunged at the assailant, successfully thwarting him.
The truth is, I am not trained to confront an armed intruder. A three-hour training session, which included a PowerPoint presentation, simply doesn’t equip me with the confidence to handle such a situation. To the parents of my students reading this, please understand that I would put myself in harm’s way to protect your child. However, this would mean that my own daughter, just three years old, could grow up without her mother, and my husband would lose his partner. But as a parent myself, I would want any teacher to act the same way for my child.
The Bigger Question
It begs the question: how did we reach a point where teachers must worry about their safety at work? I remember when the Columbine tragedy occurred while I was in middle school, yet mass shootings have persisted. Why is this ongoing? Why are we ignoring the warning signs? Why am I, as an educator, risking my life instead of focusing solely on teaching my students to read, write, and communicate effectively? This should not be our reality; no teacher should have to face such fears.
As I write this, my husband glances at my screen and reminds me to reconsider my willingness to risk my life for a student. His perspective is understandable, as he prioritizes my safety as both a wife and mother. However, it’s imperative that we engage in discussions about violence, societal issues, and the many ways we’re failing to support those in need. Having lost two loved ones to gun violence—one a victim of self-harm—I am acutely aware that guns are not the sole issue. Determined individuals will always find a way to inflict harm.
Call to Action
We need to work together to foster a safe environment for our children at school. It requires collective action and commitment.
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Conclusion
In summary, the conversation around teacher safety and the broader societal issues contributing to violence needs urgent attention. We must ensure that educators can focus on their primary role—nurturing and teaching our children—without the looming fear of potential threats.
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