Poster #100 - Exploring the Impact of School Shooting Memorials

• In Event: ASC Poster Session I

Abstract

Following a tragic event like a school shooting, physical memorials are common ways of remembering and honoring those who were lost. However, while some of these memorials are temporary outlets for the affected community, some memorials are made into permanent fixtures that serve as constant reminders of what occurred. While these memorials may be initially helpful for those directly connected to a school shooting, over time they serve as permanent reminders of what occurred and it is unclear what effect these reminders will have on later cohorts of students who did not experience the event. As with the rest of the school shooting literature, research on the practices, decision-making, and positive and negative consequences around memorials is limited. Interviews with individuals involved in the recovery of several school shootings, including teachers, principals, counselors, and superintendents, revealed the decision-making around memorials and the resulting effects these school leaders perceived. Relevant findings regarding the impact of K-12 school shooting memorials and how decisions regarding these memorials should be reached will be discussed.

Author

• Stefana Elaina LoTempio, University at Albany, SUNY