Protecting students in schools with armed guards seems a solution to mass shootings. Many question the solution. Studies show armed guards do not actually work. In several instances, the schools with armed guards actually increased the death rates of students. Many shooters are suicidal. The sight of a weapon increases the aggression of a gunman.
In fact, multiple studies find there is no association between an armed officer in a school and the prevention of a mass shooting. A 2021 study from University at Albany and RAND found that school resource officers “do effectively reduce some forms of violence in schools, but do not prevent school shootings or gun-related incidents.”
Resource officers at school often protect students from fights and attacks between peers. Results report more suspensions, expulsions, and student arrests. An armed resource officer should end the terror of a shooter. However, it has deterred no attacks. Active shooters stop firing on their own by either leaving or taking their own lives. In fact, in 25 shootings, a study in the ALERRT states no shootings ended by an armed staff, guard, or police officer. Another study shows an armed guard will never encounter an active shooter. Experts question whether it makes a school safer. Thus, there is no evidence that armed guards or resource officers deter violence.
Armed Guards and More Police
A common reaction to a school shooting is to add more police to boost security. However, more police in schools are not the answer. In fact, some students feel uneasy with the presence of the police. Students of color feel unsafe and alienated from school with officers on the school campus.
Students see officers in schools watching them and not looking out for a shooter to enter the building. They see officers as a threat. Many students want police out of schools.
Advocate for More Counselors
Since 2020, the student group has advocated for eliminating police officers from school buildings in favor of investing in counselors and support staff for students. With the rise of mental health issues and the concern for social and emotional skills, counselors need to be in schools.
Schools must concern themselves with the health and well-being of students. They are driven to a breaking-point with all that happens in their lives. Students must deal with fear, grief, and other disruptions in their educational life. Yet, many schools lack counselors and school psych9ologists.
Mental health and social-emotional development relate to learning. Enough with the armed resources officers and armed guards. Research states they do not prevent mass shootings.
