Police Don't Prevent School Shootings


Police Don't Prevent School Shootings

  In response to tragic school shootings like those at Sandy Hook and Parkland, there has been a push to increase police presence in schools. However, this approach does not create a safer environment and can have negative impacts on school culture and student success. Rather, the increased police presence in schools has actually led to a significant rise in violent offenses, such as school shootings, over time.


Police Are Not the Answer.

     The presence of police officers correlates with higher casualty rates during school shootings. A study conducted by Hamline University found that incidents involving an armed officer resulted in three times as many fatalities compared to those without an officer. This suggests that their presence might actually escalate violence rather than prevent it.


     While an increased police presence might create the appearance of safety, it does not address the root causes of violence. Studies show that police officers, who are often untrained in youth development, can escalate situations instead of de-escalating them, leading to increased violence. Officers are not equipped to address deeper issues such as poverty or mental health crises, highlighting their inability to tackle the core problems behind school violence.


     Moreover, the presence of police can lead prospective attackers to plan more meticulously and bring additional weapons. The visibility of officers might prompt attackers to develop more detailed plans, potentially increasing the severity of an attack.

Our Solutions

  1. Restorative Justice:
  2. We are calling on the MCPS Board of Education to fund a full-time restorative justice coach in every middle & high-school that would be properly equipped to handle students' needs & address the deeper roots of a student's misbehavior.
  3. Mental Health Resources:
  4. We are advocating for funding to be redirected from police to mental health resources, counselors, and social workers who are more equipped to address students' emotional and behavioral issues.


Looking for More Information?

See Our Latest "Police Don't Prevent School Shootings" One Pager                                                                                                                                                   


Or Check Out Some Other Resources Below

  • https://www.gao.gov/products/gao-20-455
  • https://www.edweek.org/leadership/school-police-prevent-some-violence-but-not-shootings-research-finds/2023/07
  • https://policefreeschools.org/resources/assaultatspringvalley-2023-analysis-of-police-violence/
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