
Gun violence has become an increasing problem in Colorado, but citizens are hoping that newly implemented laws will change that. Illustration by Katelyn Lemon
By Heidi Wuppermann
Oct. 21, 2024
As Summit High School students, we have a particular tendency to think optimistically, as if our isolated community is removed from the realities of gun incidents. In truth, SHS (and other Colorado) students have felt the harsh effects of school shootings.
On Feb. 7, 2023, SHS was threatened by an anonymous caller who said that they were stationed outside of the school with a rifle and pipe bombs. Although the threat was empty, students across the county went into lockdown. SHS’ lockdown lasted four hours, during which countless rumors spread and parents feared for their childrens’ safety.
Shortly after the shooting that killed four students and staff at Apalachee High School in Barrow County, Georgia, school shooting threats began circulating online in several states. Eagle County students experienced threats, some targeting specific individuals.
It is imperative that we as students take action to reduce the probability of gun violence, especially those of us that can vote in the upcoming election.
As many students, teachers, and gun-control advocates have noticed, gun violence has become an increasing issue in schools across the United States. We’re not safe from it in Colorado.
The first deadliest school shooting happened in Colorado. On Apr. 20, 1999, two Columbine High School students killed 12 of their classmates and a teacher, and injured 23 others before shooting themselves. The event led to dramatic change in the way that people viewed gun violence and school security in the United States. And, although similar tragedies have since kickstarted change nationwide, incidents involving guns in Colorado schools have continued.
Just last year, East High School experienced a tragic shooting episode when a student shot and injured two school administrators during a safety check. A report from The Colorado Sun found that between 2020 and 2022, over 44 school shootings and threats arose in the state.
Studies have shown that gun violence spans beyond physical harm. As the American Psychological Association notes, the threat of school violence leads to an increase in stress and a decrease in students’ academic performance, when students are preoccupied with concerns about safety.
The East High shooting prompted a larger discussion in the state about how guns should be handled in school safety plans. In 2023, Colorado expanded their “red flag” law, which allows for guns to be temporarily taken away from individuals deemed to be a threat. However, there is still debate over whether these measures are enough to truly prevent future incidents.
As high school students, we can advocate for policy changes by working with school administrators and local politicians, or raising awareness about the need for better gun safety measures.
Voting in the upcoming election is one of the most powerful ways individuals can contribute to reducing the risks of gun violence. If you are particularly concerned with these issues, can support candidates and policies that prioritize gun safety measures. Every vote, political donation, and local advocacy, can make a difference in ensuring that local and national policies prioritize keeping our schools safe.
Comments