Since Weds, Feb 14th I have observed a plethora of responses to the massacre at Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School. My emotions have run a literal marathon. While many of our youth and educators are finally speaking up and having their voices heard I cannot sit back and not listen to some of the ridiculous things I've heard and seen.
I know I'm preaching to the choir here, but the answer to this situation is NOT to arm all the teachers!
Putting metal detectors in all schools is not the answer.
Planning walkouts for months away is not the answer; especially on state testing days. They message will be lost there.
Blaming the lack of mental health care is not the answer.
Pointing fingers and blaming is not the answer.
Sending thoughts and prayers is not the answer.
But more than anything sitting around and not doing anything is also not the answer.
Standing up, speaking out and voting is the answer. Empowering teachers to get to the polls and to have their voice heard by lawmakers IS part of the answer.
Teaching students how to manage their emotions and how to cope with stress IS part of the answer.
Right now too many people are focused on finding the ONE right answer, but there's a problem with that approach.
There is no ONE right answer.
Our country is in need of a new approach to many of the issues we face. We need a new approach to gun regulations and purchases. We need to all incorporate a new approach to teach the WHOLE child and that requires additional training of everyone on a school campus. We need to connect with lawmakers and ensure they really hear from us.
I hope that everyone is doing well and staying strong after the difficult past few days. I also hope everyone is ready to go out and be heard while educating the whole student.
