Getting ahead of school shootings: A call for action, advocacy and research

Abstract

Despite the fact that schools remain incredibly safe spaces for children and youth to spend time, the occurrence of mass school shootings, although rare, is a pressing issue for our society. In this paper we discuss the importance of action, advocacy, and research related to mass school shootings. Specifically, we discuss research-based actions for preventing and responding to mass school shootings, including multi-tiered systems of support, positive behavior interventions and supports, threat assessment, and trauma-informed care. In regard to advocacy, we focus on the need to discontinue ineffective and, in some cases, harmful practices such as zero-tolerance policies. We conclude with an examination of the needed research in this area, with special attention on the use of active shooter drills and firearm legislation.

Keywords:

• school shootings
• school violence
• school safety

Disclosure statement

No potential conflict of interest was reported by the author(s).

Additional information

Notes on contributors

Lauren W. Collins

Lauren W. Collins, PhD, is an associate professor at San Diego State University who specializes in translating research into practice to improve student outcomes, particularly in reading and behavior. She is committed to creating safe and inclusive educational environments, with a focus on preventing exclusionary discipline practices and school violence.

Timothy J. Landrum

Timothy J. Landrum, PhD, is a professor of special education at the University of Louisville in Louisville, KY. His work focuses on emotional and behavioral disorders, and more recently on the intersections among mental health, a relationship focus in classroom and behavior management, and the prevention of serious challenging behavior.

Chris A. Sweigart

Chris A. Sweigart, PhD, is a Special Education Consultant at the Ohio Valley Educational Cooperative. His interests include evidence-based practices and approaches for improving school safety and the lives of students facing significant challenges, such as mental health and behavior disorders and academic failure.