With over 7% of high school students reporting injuries or threats involving weapons, schools are actively seeking ways to enhance safety measures. At Centennial High School in Columbus, Principal Stephanie Porta highlights the ongoing need for additional resources to combat the pervasive fear of gun violence affecting students’ ability to learn and feel secure in their environment.
Data from the Ohio Department of Education reveals alarmingly low expulsion and suspension rates for firearm-related offenses, raising concerns about the effectiveness of current safety protocols. School counselor Jennifer Reese emphasizes that a culture of safety and trust is essential, advocating for the reinstatement of school resource officers to help build rapport with students and tackle the underlying issues contributing to these fears.
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