Arson, the act of intentionally setting fire to property, is a serious crime that can have devastating consequences. Unfortunately, school arson is not uncommon and poses significant safety risks for students, faculty, and infrastructure. This article serves as a guide to understanding what school arson entails, its impact, and how to prevent it.
The Scope of the Problem
Schools are uniquely vulnerable to arson due to several factors such as the building layout, which allows a fire to spread rapidly. These incidents are often fueled by a combination of anger, revenge or even thrill-seeking motives. Reports reveal that most school arsons are committed by students themselves, typically between the ages of 10 and 18.
Consequences of Arson in Schools
Damage caused by arson can be far-reaching. First and foremost is the threat to life as fires pose significant danger for anyone caught within the vicinity of these incidents. In addition, arson can cause extensive property damage resulting in costly repairs or complete rebuilding efforts. Beyond the physical damage, the emotional impact on communities affected by school arson cannot be underestimated. This includes trauma, long-lasting fear and loss of trust.
Fire Safety Measures
One critical element in preventing school arson is ensuring proper fire safety measures are in place. Adequate precautions include:
1. Regular inspections: Maintain up-to-date fire risk assessments and ensure all fire safety equipment is well-maintained.
2. Surveillance systems: Install surveillance cameras strategically throughout the premises to monitor activities in real-time.
3. Controlled access: Limit unauthorized access by implementing secure entry points with restricted after-hours access.
4. Early warning systems: Utilize alarm systems with direct links to local emergency services for quick response times.
Preventing School Arson
Preventing arson requires a multi-faceted approach involving students, faculty, staff members, parents, and local authorities. Key strategies include:
1. Education and awareness: Teach students about the dangers of arson, consequences of playing with fire, and the legal ramifications they could face.
2. Encourage open communication: Create an environment where students feel comfortable approaching faculty or staff to report suspicious behavior or concerns.
3. Addressing grievances: Make efforts to understand the root causes behind acts of arson and resolve potential issues before they escalate.
Conclusion
Arson in schools is a serious and unsettling issue that poses a significant risk to safety, property, and the well-being of communities. By understanding the nature and extent of the problem, implementing effective fire safety measures, fostering open communication, and addressing underlying issues, it is possible to make strides towards preventing these incidents. With a strong commitment from all stakeholders involved, we can make our schools safer for everyone.
Crime scene investigation is an integral part of modern law enforcement. It requires a keen eye, meticulous attention to detail, and the ability to work under pressure. To help aspiring crime scene investigators and enthusiasts sharpen their skills, we’ve compiled a list of 18 hands-on crime scene activities that are both educational and engaging.
1. Fingerprint Dusting
Learn how to lift fingerprints from various surfaces using fingerprint powder and brushes. Compare different patterns and analyze them for identification purposes.
2. Footprint Casting
Practice making plaster casts of footprints or shoe impressions found at a mock crime scene for further analysis.
3. Blood Splatter Analysis
Investigate the science behind blood spatter patterns by simulating blood splatters using non-toxic materials and interpreting the results.
4. Fiber and Hair Analysis
Examine different types of fibers and hair found at crime scenes under a microscope, learning how to identify their origin.
5. Handwriting Analysis
Evaluate handwriting samples to help determine authorship or uncover potential forgeries in written documents.
6. Bullet Trajectory Analysis
Explore the physics of bullet trajectories with simulated shootings, analyzing entrance and exit wounds in relation to distance and angles.
7. DNA Extraction Experiment
Perform a simple DNA extraction from fruit or vegetables to gain an understanding of how DNA is isolated in a forensic lab.
8. Document Examination
Investigate questioned documents by closely analyzing ink types, paper composition, watermarks, and other unique characteristics.
9. Arson Investigation Simulation
Discover how fire investigators piece together clues from fire debris to determine if arson is the cause of the blaze.
10. Insect Study
Understand the role insects play in determining time of death by examining various insect species and their life cycles during decomposition.
11. Autopsy Simulation
Participate in a mock autopsy, learning about the procedures used to determine the cause of death and other valuable forensic information.
12. Facial Reconstruction
Explore the fascinating process of recreating a face from skeletal remains using clay, specialized tools, and anatomical knowledge.
13. Crime Scene Mapping
Create a detailed map of a mock crime scene, including measurements and locations of evidence, to aid in the investigation.
14. Trace Evidence Analysis
Investigate minute particles such as paint chips, glass fragments, and soil samples that can be vital to solving a crime.
15. Vehicle Forensics
Examine various aspects of vehicles involved in crimes like tire tracks, VIN numbers, or vehicle-related debris at crash scenes.
16. Tool Mark Analysis
Study marks left by tools on surfaces or objects for comparison purposes to link specific tools with specific crimes or suspects.
17. Toxicology Reports
Learn about the process of analyzing body fluids for drugs, alcohol, or poisons that could play a role in determining cause of death.
18. Entomology Reports
Gain experience in identifying insect species found on or around a body and determining how they can be used to estimate time since death.
Conclusion:
These 18 hands-on crime scene activities offer a diverse range of skills to practice and enhance forensic knowledge. Whether you’re an aspiring investigator or simply passionate about the field, participating in these activities will deepen your understanding of crime scene investigations and the complex process required to solve cases effectively.
The importance of school security cannot be overstated in today’s world. Creating a safe and secure learning environment is critical for ensuring the well-being of students, staff, and visitors. One key aspect of school security is fortifying the perimeter and buildings to protect against potential threats and intrusions. In this article, we will discuss essential strategies for securing the school perimeter and buildings.
Securing the Perimeter
1.Fencing and Gates: Enclosing the entire school property with fencing can serve as a visual deterrent to unauthorized access. Sturdy, tall fencing with minimal gaps can help prevent intruders from entering the perimeter. Additionally, gates should be installed at all entry points to control access effectively.
2.Control Access Points: Limiting access points to a bare minimum can effectively manage traffic flow into and out of the school premises. Staff should monitor these access points during entry and exit times, restricting unapproved visitors or vehicles.
3.Security Cameras: Installing surveillance cameras around the school perimeter provides an additional layer of security. Cameras deter potential intruders while enabling real-time monitoring and recording of any suspicious or unauthorized activities.
4.Landscape Design: Landscape elements such as shrubs, boulders, etc., can serve as natural barriers to restrict unauthorized entry into the premises. It’s also vital to maintain clear visibility by trimming trees and bushes regularly.
5.Lighting: Adequate lighting around the school perimeter deters intruders while enhancing visibility for patrolling security personnel or video surveillance systems.
Securing Buildings
1.Secure Entrances: All building entrances must be securely locked from the inside during school hours while implementing restricted access through designated entry points like front doors or reception areas.
2.Video Intercoms: Implement video intercom systems at main entry points to authenticate visitors before granting them access.
3.Doors and Windows: Ensure doors and windows have high-security locking mechanisms and are in proper working condition. Regularly check for damages and fix them promptly.
4.Alarm Systems: Installing alarm systems can help detect intrusion or other security breaches within the school buildings. These systems should be monitored by trained personnel for a quicker response to any emergency situation.
5.Classroom Lockdown Procedures: Develop and regularly practice lockdown procedures for classrooms to quickly secure students and staff in case of an emergency. Prominently display instructions detailing steps to follow during a lockdown.
Final Thoughts
Enhancing the security of a school’s perimeter and buildings is crucial for creating a safe learning environment for students, educators, and staff alike. By combining physical security measures—such as fencing, surveillance systems, and controlled access points—with effective protocols and training, schools can significantly bolster their security posture. Investing in these deterrence measures will not only help maintain a safe campus but also promote a sense of confidence among parents entrusting their children to the institution.
The devastating events of school shootings and violence have become an increasingly pressing concern for parents, educators, and policymakers in recent years. While many solutions have been put forth to mitigate the risk of these tragedies, one measure that has gained increased attention is the implementation of metal detectors in schools. While some critics argue that these devices can create a hostile learning environment and infringe on privacy rights, there are several compelling reasons in defense of school metal detectors that we must take into consideration.
Addressing the Safety Concerns
First and foremost, metal detectors serve as a deterrent for individuals who may be discouraged from bringing weapons to school. Knowing there is a systematic security procedure in place may make potential perpetrators think twice about carrying out violent acts on school grounds.
Moreover, metal detectors can identify dangerous items such as guns, knives, and other harmful objects, allowing school staff and security personnel to take swift action in preventing any harm to students and faculty. This level of security reassurance is invaluable to creating a safer learning environment and fostering peace of mind for all members of the school community.
Preventing Unintended Tragedies
In addition to deterring premeditated acts of violence, metal detectors may also prevent unintended tragedies by identifying weapons unintentionally brought onto school property. Often times, students may inadvertently bring forbidden items like pocket knives or tools to school without realizing the potential risk they pose. Metal detectors help ensure any prohibited items are intercepted before they become an issue.
Positive Long-Term Effects
Research also suggests that schools with metal detectors experience a lower rate of reported weapon possession and have fewer incidents related to weapon use. This decrease in violent incidents benefits the entire academic community as it promotes positive student behavior and creates more conducive learning environments that support educational success.
Counteracting Potential Negatives
While opponents may argue that metal detectors hinder the welcoming atmosphere at schools or infringe on student privacy, these concerns can be addressed with appropriate implementation. Schools can install metal detectors in unobtrusive ways and ensure that personnel operate the machines with respect for students’ privacy. Additionally, comprehensive security measures should include education about the importance of safety measures to foster an understanding and cooperative school community.
Conclusion
When we weigh the potential benefits of implementing metal detectors at schools against their perceived drawbacks, it becomes evident that their use can significantly contribute to the safety and well-being of students and staff. As we continue to face the harsh reality of school violence, schools need to consider all available options to help protect their communities. In defense of school metal detectors, they stand as a proactive measure that may deter potential perpetrators, prevent unintended incidents, and ultimately create a safer learning environment for all.
Gun violence in schools has become an increasingly pressing issue in recent years, with tragic mass shootings highlighting the need for intervention and changes. As the individuals at the frontline of education, teachers are essential figures in this conversation. Their opinions regarding school safety, prevention, and response to gun violence are vital in crafting an effective strategy to protect students. This article aims to explore what teachers really think about gun violence in schools and their suggestions for potential solutions.
A Complex Problem:
For many teachers, gun violence in schools is a complex problem that requires a multi-faceted approach. They understand that the issue doesn’t come from a single source and that various factors contribute to it, such as mental health, lack of security measures, weak legal regulations around firearms, and societal glorification of violence.
The Need for Effective Mental Health Support:
Teachers are keenly aware that students experiencing mental health challenges may be at a higher risk of resorting to violence. As such, they emphasize the importance of offering comprehensive psychological support in schools, including increased access to trained mental health professionals, counseling services for students and staff alike, and education on recognizing signs of mental distress.
A Call for Increased School Security Measures:
Another aspect highlighted by teachers is the need for better school security measures. They suggest investing in trained security personnel, secure entrance mechanisms, more stringent identification of visitors on campus grounds, and creating a safe environment where students feel welcomed rather than threatened.
Debate Over Arming Teachers:
The proposition of arming teachers has sparked a spirited debate amongst educators. Some believe that being armed would enable them to protect their students during an active shooter situation. In contrast, others argue that introducing firearms into schools only increases the potential for accidental or intentional harm and creates additional stress on teachers who are already tasked with a multitude of responsibilities.
Background Checks and Stricter Gun Control Laws:
Many educators point towards stricter background checks and more robust gun control laws as one potential way to reduce gun violence in schools. They advocate for policies like improved background check systems, mandatory waiting periods for firearm purchases, and raising the age limit for gun ownership.
Promoting a Healthy School Culture:
Teachers maintain that fostering a positive school culture is essential in preventing violence. By creating a supportive environment that emphasizes empathy, respect, and inclusivity, students are less likely to feel isolated or resort to violent acts. Teachers also recommend implementing peer mediation programs, which empower students to resolve conflicts and maintain healthy relationships.
Conclusion:
The opinions of teachers regarding gun violence in schools are diverse but unified in the desire to protect their students. As key stakeholders in the education system, their insights into potential solutions like mental health support, enhanced security measures, stricter gun control laws, and promoting a healthy school culture cannot be ignored. Crafting effective strategies requires collaboration between educators, lawmakers, administrators, parents, and students themselves to ensure the safety and well-being of every individual within our schools.
In today’s world, ensuring the safety of students and staff within educational institutions is a top priority. The responsibility of maintaining a safe learning environment largely falls on school principals. We sought insight from eight school principals to find out how they cope with school safety fears and ensure that their campuses remain secure for all. Here are the strategies they shared.
1. Comprehensive Emergency Management Plan:
Principal A emphasized the importance of having a thorough emergency management plan in place. This plan should incorporate potential risks, responsive actions, drills, and regular review processes to keep it up-to-date and relevant.
2. Collaboration with Local Law Enforcement:
Principal B shared that forging strong relationships with local law enforcement can be vital in bolstering school security. By partnering with police, principals can gain valuable insights into security measures and receive assistance in tailoring initiatives to suit their unique contexts.
3. Professional Development Programs for Staff:
Principal C discussed the essential role of ongoing professional development programs for teachers and staff to ensure they are equipped to respond promptly during crises. These programs focus on developing skills such as risk assessments, communication, de-escalation techniques, and emotional support for affected individuals.
4. Enhanced Security Measures:
For Principal D, investing in advanced security equipment is key to addressing safety concerns. Measures like modern surveillance systems, visitor management software, alarm systems, and secured entry points all help create a more secure environment.
5. Encouraging Open Communication:
Principal E highlighted the need for open communication between students, staff, administration, and parents. This includes creating accessible channels for reporting suspicious activities or concerns without fear of backlash or stigma.
6. Mental Health Support Services:
In order to address the root cause of potential threats, Principal F believes that investing in mental health support services is crucial. Providing counseling services and wellness programs can help students cope with stressors and reduce the likelihood of dangerous behavior.
7. Regular Safety Drills:
Principal G shared that consistent safety drills are essential in preparing staff and students for potential emergencies. These may include fire drills, lockdown drills, and even specific active shooter training sessions to ensure everyone is knowledgeable on appropriate response protocols.
8. Building a Culture of Trust and Accountability:
Finally, Principal H emphasized the significance of fostering positive relationships within the school community. This involves nurturing a culture of trust, transparency, and accountability between students, parents, teachers, and administration to maintain a safe environment for everyone.
Conclusion:
As school leaders navigating an increasingly complex landscape, principals face significant challenges when it comes to ensuring the safety and well-being of their students and staff. By learning from these eight principals who have successfully implemented various strategies to address school safety fears, others can also adopt effective measures to protect their communities.
It can help them release tension, relieve stress, and improve their moods. It can also help them learn new things and develop new skills. There are many reasons why sports is a great option for teenagers. Here are a few reasons why:
1. It can help young people develop social muscles.
It can also help them learn new skills. Sports can also help them develop a sense of team spirit. This can help them develop a sense of self-esteem.
2. It can help young people learn about their own body and their own abilities.
It can also help them learn about other people’s abilities. This can help them develop self-confidence.
3. It can help young people meet new people.
It can also help them learn about new cultures. This can help them learn about new things.
4. It can help young people develop their teamwork skills.
It can also help them learn about team culture. This can help them develop their teamwork skills.
5. It can help young people learn about their own emotions.
It can also help them learn about other people’s emotions. This can help them learn about their own emotions.
The need for increased security on college campuses is a growing concern for parents, family members, and loved ones. In the news and media online, you can hear or read about incidents, accidents, and even violent crimes that are taking place on US college campuses. Technology can offer increased security, regardless of the reason for the apparent increase in crime on university campuses. An increase in security on our college campuses should be one benefit of living in the age of growing technology. So, how can we use technology to keep our students safe?
Security Alerts Delivered by Text Messages and Apps:
As a college student once, myself, I remember receiving text messages directly to my “dumb phone” through my college’s optional text message alert system. Even though I attended college without an Android or iPhone, I was able to receive immediate alerts from my university about threats on campus. Sometimes the alert was regarding an impending snow storm, and sometimes campus alerts via text message enabled me to be aware of a possible threat to campus security. Technology now has far surpassed the ability to protect its student bodies just through text message alerts. Although university’s security departments can quickly notify entire student populations through a simple text message, now as noted by Meghan Bortez many security apps and gadgets are widely available to students to increase their personal protection and security.
Increased Lighting and Advanced Cameras:
Automatic lighting systems and sensors can be placed across entire university campuses to increase security. Some ways we can increase campus security are actually quite simple. we can protect our students by increasing the amount and quality of security lights. Students will feel more secure when walking back and forth to classes when security lights are distributed throughout the campus. No areas should be left completely in the dark. Neal Raisman author or “10 Steps to Create a More Secure Campus,” comments that increased lighting can not only offer increased protection but, may also decrease the student drop-out rate, because students may feel more secure when walking on campus at night. Also, noted by Meghan Bortez on www.edtechmagazine.com, an increase in the quality, quantity, and placement of cameras on university campuses can discourage petty theft and violent crime. When crimes do occur, campus security should be able to view camera footage to help identify the perpetrator.
Place Emergency Blue Light Phones Across Campus:
Some campuses are now placing “emergency blue light phone systems,” across their campus. At the University of Florida, police have installed emergency blue light phones across their campus. These “phones” enable you to alert security immediately of a security breach or concern without even placing a phone call. At the press of a bottom on one of these tall blue, highly visible phone systems, students can instantly contact their campus’ security dispatch center. By pressing the button, the dispatch center will also know the student’s location immediately. The dispatch center can send security personnel to that precise location and speak to the student. These emergency blue light phones are an excellent way to increase security on campus and should be put in use on every campus across America to decrease violent crime.
What Else Can We Do?
With the technology that we have available today, there should be no excuses why the students of America are not feeling safe on their own college campuses in the afternoon or at night. University alert systems increased lighting and cameras, and emergency blue light phones or other security systems can immediately increase the security and safety of student bodies. In addition to taking advantage of today’s technology developments, students, faculty, and staff need to work together to put in place effective security systems on their own campuses. Increase communication, collaboration, and inform your student body from orientation to graduation about how to stay safe.
Neal Raisman presents additional simple suggestions that can be used by everyone. For example, universities can offer defense classes and post the university police department and emergency contact information in public spaces. There should be no reason that today’s generation of young adults should fear their safety on their own college campuses with the options that we have available today, provided through technology and university and student collaboration.
With all the news of different school shootings, it is becoming increasingly important to take advantage of new technology to keep schools safer. Implementing effective high-technology security systems can be costly and lengthy but there are four tips to make the decision of what is best for your school:
Know your school’s unique needs.
Start small, then build smart…don’t try to implement every technology security system at once.
Head off controversy by including the families of students in the decision-making process.
Don’t forget to hire people to oversee, run, maintain, and upgrade the system.
With these four tips in mind, here are ten very popular and effective technologies that keep schools safe.
#1 Social Net Watcher
At a middle school in Indiana, administrators launched their new computer program, Social Net Watcher. This program works in “the cloud” to find dangerous words posted on Facebook which then, through the program’s algorithm, will alert the school administrators. This program helps the school to keep an eye on cyber bullying. Bruce Canal, the President of Social Net Watch, said “With the new bullying law that went into effect in Indiana this summer, schools are now required to report to the Department of Education the number of bullying events that they’ve had. Our software also allows them to go in and create a report to send to the Department of Education.”
#2 Anonymous Alerts
Another technology that helps prevent bullying or other severe and dangerous situations such as a weapon on campus is the Anonymous Alerts app. At Round Rock ISD, students and staff can download this app on their Apple or Android products and can anonymously report incidents. Round Rock ISD spokesperson, Corey Ryan, mentioned that they want students to feel safe and comfortable when sharing concerns about safety and security.
#3 NetSafe Kit
Many schools feel that they can’t completely protect their students online. So, they are focusing on teaching students to be prepared and safe while online. This NetSafe Kit helps schools teach students cyber safety and digital citizenship.
#4 Visitor Management System
Many schools require visitors to sign in on a paper log and show proof of ID before entering the halls of the school. However, at Stow-Munroe Falls High School, the administration is using a technological visitor management system to protect its students. Visitors have their state or federal identification scanned and the system checks a national database of registered sex offenders.
#5 Entry Control Equipment
Not only should schools require visitors to check in with the office before going any farther into the school, but many schools feel it necessary to keep all exits locked at all times. These schools have entry control equipment: electromagnetic doors that can be remotely locked or unlocked. Visitors buzz in and the office staff can choose to unlock the doors for them or not.
#6 Metal Detectors/X-Ray Machines
Especially in inner-city schools where violence and drugs are rife, metal detectors and x-ray machines are a necessity to keep entrances to the school campus safe. This will allow detection of guns, knives, or other weapons before they are brought on campus.
#7 Surveillance Cameras
Over 90% of K-12 schools in the United States have security cameras and video surveillance equipment. Cameras should be placed in the school hallways, large rooms (such as the library, cafeteria, and gym), and especially near the front entrance. Some security systems come with alert buttons that send emergency transmissions to police.
#8 Panic Buttons
Teachers can wear small panic buttons such as the Mobile Duress panic button on their belts or pockets during the day. If some trouble or danger arises, the teacher can push the button and an alert is sent to both the authorities and the school administrators. The administrators will then make everyone in the building aware of the threat while first responders make their way to the school. Different brands of panic buttons can double as microphones or voice amplifications systems.
#9 Mass Messaging Software
Mass messaging software, such as e2campus, allow schools to immediately send messages to parents, students, faculty, and staff at the same time when there is a threat. Messages can be sent in the form of email, voice, or text and can be sent to both computers and smart devices. Even without threats or danger to the school, this program is nice to have to send community-wide reminders or memos.
#10 Alertus Desktop
Having all the computers of staff members connected is important to keeping the school safe. Using Alertus Desktop, or other similar programs, allows desktop alerts to appear on every computer screen on campus. This is a great idea, especially if a student or faculty member is in an area that doesn’t have great cell service. It can also help all staff members stay coordinated and be used to send staff memos and reminders.
Remember, the safety of the students and staff at your school are of the utmost importance. Don’t be too paranoid in your decision making, but be smart.
As of Aug. 1, 2016, a new law allows concealed handguns in college and university buildings in Texas.
It’s already had an impact on me as professor of religious studies at the University of Texas at Austin. Thanks to this law, I set foot in a federal court building for the first time.
And I was not alone. The courtroom was packed. Other citizens were there as well to support three professors who are suing the state’s attorney general and the University of Texas for the right to ban guns from their own classrooms.
Why are these professors taking the extraordinary step of suing the state of Texas and their own university?
In order to understand the situation, we need to consider the political tensions between the legislature and the university, the ideological struggle over the goals of higher education and the possible dangers of bringing more guns to campuses.
Campus carry law in Texas
Until this year, Texas law allowed anyone with a Concealed Handgun License (CHL) to carry a loaded hidden gun on campus, but not inside buildings. This restriction kept down the number of people carrying weapons legally on campus.
During the 2015 legislative session, a majority of Republicans pushed the idea to allow guns on campus. University administrators, faculty, faculty council, staff, undergraduate and graduate students and campus police overwhelmingly opposed the idea.
However, in spite of campus opposition, in May 2015, the proposed law, known as Senate Bill 11 (SB 11), was approved. So, as of Aug. 1, 2016, anyone with a concealed handgun license can carry a loaded, semiautomatic pistol into most offices, classrooms, hallways, public spaces, cafeterias and gyms at state universities. All that they need: four hours of training and a score of 70 percent accuracy on a shooting test.
Supporters argue that Americans have a constitutional right to protect themselves and carry weapons with as few limits as possible. Carrying guns into classrooms, they say, is part of that right.
Clash of ideologies
For many of us, however, this conflict is about a larger ideological battle over the goals and character of higher education in Texas, with one side emphasizing obedience to authority and the other the need to critique authority.
Let’s consider these two views of education.
The ideology of higher education in the U.S. has historically focused on critical thinking, and faculty overwhelmingly see this as the primary goal (see especially Table 3) of college and university classes. According to this view, universities and colleges are encouraged to question orthodoxy. In other words, higher education should subject all truth claims to intense scrutiny.
The goal of this process is not to tear down society but to make it better, to allow us to develop our full potential as individuals and as a nation in the pursuit of liberty and justice.
But here is where the conflict comes in. As the discussion below shows, the campus carry movement has, it seems, a different ideology for higher education. The underlying motivation is that traditional authority must be maintained and, in the end, disagreement is resolved by force, not by debate. For this ideology, critical thinking is a potential threat to authority.
Republican Party principles
Evidence for this comes from the ideas expressed in the Texas Republican Party platform, a formal declaration of the principles on which a party stands and makes it appeal to voters.
The 2012 Texas Republican Party Platform took an explicit stand against “critical thinking skills and similar programs…that focus on behavior modification and have the purpose of challenging the student’s fixed beliefs and undermining parental authority.”
Subsequently, the 2016 Texas Republican Platform stepped back from that extreme statement. But it still asserted that parents or guardians – not the government – should have ultimate control over the education of their children.
In the 2016 platform, both guns and religion are discussed in the section on education. Here is what it looks like:
The section on education supports the radical position that all law-abiding citizens should be able to carry guns anywhere without restriction. It says,
“We collectively urge the legislature to pass ‘constitutional carry’ legislation, whereby law-abiding citizens that possess firearms can legally exercise their God-given right to carry that firearm as well. We call for the elimination of all gun free zones. All federal acts, laws, executive orders, and court orders which restrict or infringe on the people’s right to keep and bear arms shall be invalid in Texas, not be recognized by Texas, shall be specifically rejected by Texas, and shall be considered null and void and of no effect in Texas.”
Another paragraph in the education section discusses “safeguarding religious liberties.“ This one begins by saying,
“We affirm that the public acknowledgment of God is undeniable in our history and is vital to our freedom, prosperity, and strength.”
It goes on to denounce “the myth of separation of church and state,” and it supports the right of businesses to refuse service to anyone based on religious conviction.
What this does is to reaffirm the ideology of the Republican Party of Texas – that education should be governed by traditional authorities of family and conservative forms of Protestant Christianity and not by critical inquiry.
In other words, religious commitment of individuals is more important than civil rights. Furthermore, according to this traditionalist view of authority, liberty and safety are preserved not so much by critique and analysis as by encouraging everyone to carry a gun.
Views from ground zero
This raises the question of how this ideology affects students and professors in the classroom.
As the political battle raged in the Texas legislature in spring 2016, I taught a science and religion class in which we spent the semester analyzing the volatile debates in the U.S. about human evolution and creationism.
I asked my students how they would feel about the possible presence of guns in classrooms.
One student self-identified as having a concealed handgun license and did not have trouble with the presence of guns. But most others thought that it would make them more cautious and less forthright in class. One student said she would be vigilant about how other students were acting. Another said she would censor her opinions.
The sentiment they expressed was confirmed in anonymous polling I conducted before our discussion. Two students (11 percent) were in favor of concealed carry on campus as demanded by SB 11, while 13 (68 percent) thought guns should be completely illegal on campus except for law officers. Only three students (16 percent) felt that SB 11 would make them safer, while 11 (58 percent) expected that the law would make campus less safe.
While one class is hardly a representative sample, these numbers reflect discussions I’ve had with my classes over the last few semesters. The numbers also match a variety of conversations I’ve had on campus.
What might change on campus?
As a professor, I have other concerns for my students beyond the classroom. We work with students at a difficult time in their lives as they work through the transition to adulthood. Some of them also face serious emotional issues. When I have to deal with failed exams, missed assignments and occasional plagiarism or cheating, I sometimes worry about how they will respond.
So far I have not encountered physical threats to my own safety, but I know faculty who have. While waiting in line for the security screening at the federal courthouse, I learned of two more examples. One was a professor of computer sciences who told me about the time when he was physically shoved and verbally abused by a student who got a B rather than an A.
He decided not to press charges. But when the legislature passed the campus carry law, he retired rather than face the possibility of legal weapons in university buildings. Another faculty member told of the time she had to convince her dean to drop a student from her class midsemester for anti-Semitic remarks the student made about her.
Systematic studies point toward other problems that await us if we increase the number of guns on campus. We can expect more accidental shootings, more successful suicide attempts and perhaps even an increase in sexual assaults. In the event of an actual active shooter event, we can expect that an armed civilian will make no difference or even make the situation worse.
Will guns change the character of higher education?
The ideological struggle will continue. Polling early in 2015 showed that Texans were divided on campus carry: 47 percent were in favor, 45 percent were opposed and 8 percent were unsure (this included 22 percent strongly supporting and 32 percent strongly opposed). Campus protests and a satirical student campaign against SB 11 are planned.
Supporters of the law have filed a formal complaint with the attorney general’s office to make the law stronger by preventing faculty and staff from banning guns in their own offices. Legal papers filed by the University of Texas and the state attorney general have stated that professors would face disciplinary measures if they barred guns from classrooms. There is significant political pressure and special interest money to expand gun rights.
If the lawsuit of the three professors is not successful, we will begin to find out fairly soon what difference SB 11 will actually make in real lives – in the classroom, in the relationships of students, faculty and staff – and in the character of higher education in an American setting.
The actual difference will not be abstract or theoretical. Both opponents and supporters of SB 11 claim that the struggle over guns on campus is a matter of life and death.
