It is no secret that violence, especially with weapons, is a pressing issue in the US. Gun-related deaths have increased by at least 18% from 2015 to 2024 (everystat.org). This increase brings new concerns about safety, health, and security. School safety is an unignorable issue, especially with the average rate of students exposed to school shooting violence having almost tripled (Panchal and Zitter). Exposure to this violence can have detrimental effects on students’ mental health, making it more difficult to focus, succeed in school, and control anxiety.
Gen Z has been extremely active in pushing back against gun violence. Many are attempting to make it a more visible and widely discussed issue, rather than something to be pushed away. Sophomore Lila Perkins shares her thoughts.
“It’s crazy that more thought and effort hasn’t gone into the fact that gun violence is one of the top contributions to people’s lives being taken,” said Perkins.
Students across the United States are ready for more action to be taken towards this increase in violence. Students should not be scared to go to school, which is usually a safe place. However, many schools and school districts are taking massive steps to ensure schools can remain a safe place for students.
Education is not the only priority for SJA’s administration. Safety has become their top concern. Systems are made, drills are run, and training is constant. Mrs. Hotop, St. Joe’s Principal of Academic Affairs, shares her thoughts on gun violence and SJA safety.
“In my role, I feel a lot of responsibility… your guy’s safety is the top thing for us [the administration],” said Hotop.
The principal also explained many key behind-the-scenes safety measures here at school. This includes door monitors, a visitor management system with background checks, working closely with Frontenac police and fire departments, staff training, and schoolwide drills, demonstrating the amount of planning that goes into school safety.
Staff, administrators, and teachers are not the only crucial players in school safety. Students are just as important. Even something as simple as not propping doors or not allowing guests into the school are small actions that can save lives.
“You guys [the students] play such an important role!” said Ms. Hotop.
Gun violence is something no one should have to worry about, yet it is uncontrollable. No one can control the violence or the situation that the world is in. However, what can be controlled is the reaction. From educating students to upgrading security measures, strides are being taken to alleviate some of the anxiety for a more peaceful world. Everyone, from staff to students, can help to minimize the possibility of an attack. One person, one question, and one report can save many.
Works Cited
EveryStat – EveryStat.org, https://everystat.org/. Accessed 8 February 2026.
“Examining School Shootings at the National and State Level and Mental Health Implications.” KFF, 18 March 2025, https://www.kff.org/mental-health/examining-school-shootings-at-the-national-and-state-level-and-mental-health-implications/. Accessed 8 February 2026.
