“Child’s Fear: Drills to Real Threats Unaddressed” school safety measures, active shooter preparedness, children’s mental health in schools

The Impact of School shooting Drills on Children

In a poignant reflection of our times, a 6-year-old hides under a desk during yet another school shooting drill, a routine that has become all too familiar. Fast forward to middle school, where that same child pushes furniture against the door during an active shooter situation, embodying the fear that haunts students daily. As lawmakers struggle to enact meaningful change, children are left to navigate a world where safety is uncertain. This urgent issue highlights the need for comprehensive gun reform and protective measures to ensure that schools are safe environments for learning and growth.

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A 6 year old hiding under their desk because there is yet another school shooting drill. That same child in middle school pushing furniture against the door when there is an active shooter in their school because lawmakers still haven’t done anything to keep them safe.

A 6 year old hiding under their desk because there is yet another school shooting drill

Imagine being a 6-year-old, sitting quietly under your desk, your heart racing during yet another school shooting drill. It’s supposed to be a routine exercise, but for kids, it feels all too real. In a world where schools are meant to be safe havens, these drills serve as a constant reminder of a terrifying possibility. Children shouldn’t have to worry about active shooters; they should be focused on learning and playing. Unfortunately, the reality is that these drills have become a regular part of school life, and it’s heartbreaking to see young children grappling with fear and anxiety. [Education Week](https://www.edweek.org/) dives deep into the psychological impact of these drills on kids and how they affect their view of school safety.

That same child in middle school pushing furniture against the door when there is an active shooter in their school

Fast forward a few years, and that same child is now in middle school, faced with a terrifying scenario. When the loudspeaker announces an active shooter situation, the instinct to survive kicks in. Pushing furniture against the door becomes a frantic yet calculated move to protect themselves and their classmates. It’s a chilling image, and it’s hard to believe that lawmakers haven’t done more to prevent these situations from happening. The emotional toll of living in constant fear of school violence is staggering. The [American Psychological Association](https://www.apa.org/) highlights how these experiences can lead to long-lasting trauma among students, leaving them feeling unsafe in a place that should feel secure.

The lack of action from lawmakers regarding school safety is infuriating. Parents and educators alike are calling for sensible gun laws and comprehensive safety measures to ensure children can learn without fear. It’s high time that we advocate for the safety of our kids, so they can focus on their education instead of hiding under desks or barricading doors.