Pulling the Trigger: The Decision of Arming School Staff in a Large, Diverse School District

• In Event: Division L Roundtable Session

Abstract

Based on actual policies and events in the state of Florida, this case prompts readers to explore the complex issues that accompany the choice to arm school personnel as a means to address school gun violence and on-campus shootings. Readers consider the issue from the perspective of the school board of a large, diverse school district and are presented with dilemmas while they consider the effectiveness, the political feasibility, the legality, the cost, and the potential unintended consequences of arming school personnel (teachers or otherwise). The school board must grapple with the complexity of making school safety decisions within the constraints of state level policy while simultaneously being responsive to local budget constraints and a diverse set of local stakeholders.

Authors

• Jennifer Kent, University of Florida

• Chris Curran, University of Florida