Will Teachers Shoot?

Abstract

The question “will teachers shoot?” is a neglected issue central to the discussions of how to make our schools safer. Arming faculty may seem like a cheap solution, but it is one that needs refinement and a deeper understanding. What if research shows that most faculty will not shoot no matter the threat or that only certain people will under certain circumstances? This of course says nothing about their level of expertise or non-existent predictions about positive and negative outcomes. Teachers are the experts in this area and their voices need to be heard. Some portray teachers as protective, loving, self-sacrificing heroes who will willingly put their lives on the line for their students. A more realistic view may be one of teachers as professional employees who are under no obligation to risk their lives for the students they teach or the institutions they serve.