2) Why has a comprehensive federal school safety plan not been implemented for students in the U.S. According to the Small Arms Research project, there are 121 firearms for every 100 residents in the US compared to an estimated 35 guns per 100 residents in Canada. Rifles \u2013 the category that includes guns sometimes referred to as \u201cassault weapons\u201d \u2013 were involved in 4% of firearm murders. You can also read key public opinion findings about U.S. gun violence and gun policy. The National Education Association (NEA) is more than 3 million people\u2014educators, students, activists, workers, parents, neighbors, and friends\u2014who believe in the opportunity for all students and the power of public education to transform lives and create a more just and inclusive society. And we know that the long-term effects of toxic stress can change the brain and body’s makeup, particularly for children, severely affecting both physical and mental health.<\/p>\n
In states with no secure storage laws or only reckless access storage laws, the gun suicide rate among young people ages 10 to 24 years old increased by 36 percent from 1999 to 2022 (Everytown for Gun Safety Support Fund, 2023-h). More than one-third of those children reported handling their parents\u2019 guns, many doing so without the knowledge of their parents (Baxley & Miller, 2006). One study showed that the majority of children are aware of where their parents store their guns. A key recommendation from the Learning Policy Institute is to invest in ongoing education and support for all educators to develop knowledge of and expand access to restorative practices among all students (Darling-Hammond, 2023).<\/p>\n
Domestic violence involving firearms also puts women at heightened risk of death or life-changing injuries. Led by Dr. Derek Collins, we convert decades of behavioral health and legal expertise into a comprehensive liability shield and safety framework. Our comprehensive approach integrates families, staff, and students into a cohesive safety net. Furthermore, the presence of a firearm makes domestic violence situations five times more likely to become lethal. 40% of children live in a household with firearms. Our leaders must take responsible action to keep our schools safe.<\/p>\n
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