University Honors

U.S. school shootings have become a concerning epidemic, showcasing a significant increase in the number of deaths and occurrences over the years. 2024 was recorded as the second highest year of school shootings in the U.S. with a total of 331 incidents and 267 victims, following behind 2023, which was the highest recorded year of school shootings with 349 incidents and 249 victims. School shooting case studies, such as the Columbine High School Massacre, have traced the collective motivation of perpetrators to being bullied, having problems with socialization, difficulty navigating their environments, and showcasing homicidal thoughts with unmonitored access to firearms. With 26 out of 50 states not requiring permits to carry both open and concealed guns, this allows anyone access to firearms and can prove to be deadly within individuals prone to violence ideation as a potential solution to their conflicts. Although schools nationwide have amplified their security and counseling services in hopes of lowering the numbers of deaths and incidents, it is important to understand and address the root cause, like common patterns and risk factors, in order to prevent school shootings from happening frequently. Upon further discussion and interpretation of data, it is suggested that schools should provide students with a tolerant and safe environment that promotes healthy communication and socializing between students and faculty. In addition to the prioritization of student health, firearm regulation and education is also necessary to establish proper ways in securing and or handling guns. The main goal is to achieve a balance where parents or caregivers are open and willing to take action and responsibility for their child, working together with schools to properly care for and appropriately assess the child’s emotional and mental well-being.