Now more than ever, it is crucial that onsite law enforcement be available to every school in America. The role of law enforcement in education must be considered in every school safety discussion. School safety is not just a school responsibility but requires community collaboration.
The shooting at Apalachee High School in Winder, Georgia, has left the community in mourning, with four individuals—two teachers and two students—tragically losing their lives. Countless other individuals were injured, and the psychological scarring will impact the whole community for generations.
The suspected shooter, 14-year-old Colt Gray, is facing murder charges and will be tried as an adult. This incident is one of the deadliest school shootings this year, bringing renewed attention to the issue of school safety in schools. Students could relay real-time information about the tragedy to their parents through their smartphones. Panic buttons hidden on Apalachee High School teachers' employee badges likely prevented a much larger tragedy. School Resource Officers made the difference in apprehending the suspect before more deaths could occur. The panic buttons and SROs saved countless lives.
Eyewitnesses recount a chaotic scene as students and faculty tried to find safety amidst the gunfire. Many students were locked down and communicated their distress to parents while emergency responders worked urgently at the scene. The FBI had previously investigated Gray due to online threats, raising concerns about the effectiveness of preventative measures in such cases. This investigation needs further analysis and should be provided to the media.
Investigators are now examining the connections between Gray and the victims, as well as how the 14-year-old acquired the AR-15-style rifle used in the shooting. In the wake of this tragedy, schools in Barrow County were immediately closed, and support resources were mobilized for those affected. Community leaders, including Georgia's governor and national leaders, have extended their condolences and support during this difficult time.
Two school resource officers, Tanner Good, and Brandon King, played a crucial role in apprehending Gray. With nearly 2,000 hours of combined law enforcement training, they responded quickly to the situation after alerts about the active shooter. Their swift actions, alongside the police response, helped bring the situation under control, preventing further escalation. These men are heroes.
Professional Educators of Tennessee and our members have been strong advocates for School Resource Officers (SROs) in Tennessee from the onset. Addressing school violence is a national priority, but there is often a disconnect between school officials and law enforcement on police roles. Tennessee has a good safety record, but ongoing incidents require greater vigilance.
Threats such as assault and drug possession demand law enforcement involvement. The Federal Commission on School Safety reports that many students carry weapons. Concerns about SRO training and educators' understanding of criminal laws indicate a need for better communication.
According to Kyle Mallory, Stewart County Board Education Safety and At-Risk Population Coordinator, “A tailored approach is essential, as law enforcement is better equipped for confrontations. Well-trained SROs often act as counselors, aiding conflict resolution on the front end. SROs are critical.”
The Center for Problem-Oriented Policing has identified three primary roles of an SRO: Safety Expert and Law Enforcer, Problem Solver, and Liaison to Community Resources. SROs also serve as educators and ex-officio advisors on law. The primary focus should be law enforcement and safety. SROs are not meant to handle minor school discipline issues or act as emergency instructors. It's essential to define SRO programs clearly, set specific goals, and assess their effectiveness accurately.
All schools need upgraded security, whether as simple or reasonable as inside locks on classroom doors. It is also time to consider the installation of metal detectors in schools. The federal government could absorb the cost by simply eliminating any of the already wasteful programs it is funding.
Public school safety must be a priority at every level of government. If you see something, say something, and then someone in authority must do something. Educators and most parents understand that intense and immersive training is required before engaging an armed assailant. Law enforcement possesses this skill.
JC Bowman
Executive Director of Professional Educators of Tennessee