While the debate of having armed school staff remains in heated discussion since the Sandy Hook shooting, Governor Robert McDonnell (R) announced that it is time for Virginia to begin a "discussion" of arming school staff members.
The discussion is starting to become a reality for some districts. Teachers in the Clifton school district in Texas received two days of training from privately owned Big Iron Concealed Handgun Training. Staff members were also instructed on how to obtain licenses to carry concealed weapons. Although there is no clear indication that the district will yet allow employees to bring guns to school, the move shows a very real consideration of the move.
Teachers carrying guns is not new to the U.S. Utah school employees have been allowed to carry weapons on grounds for nearly a decade. At least four other school districts in Texas have also allowed select employees to carry weapons to school.
With an increasing number of districts (and Gov. McDonnell) considering the policy, should Arlington and Fairfax Counties follow along? How do you feel about arming Northern Virginia school staff?
For comments, questions, or story ideas, email Janice Chong at contactjanicechong@gmail.com.
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