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Re: “Seattle-area schools see spike in students caught with guns on campus” [Feb. 17, Education Lab]:
Alison Saldanha’s article is a sobering reminder that current efforts to make schools and students safer from the threat of gun violence are falling short.
While the article mentions measures such as increased security, more accessible mental health resources and improving connections between students, families and staff, conspicuous by its absence is any discussion of the one thing that could make the biggest difference with respect to student safety and health: education!
Despite the reality that gun violence is now the leading cause of death for young persons in our state, our schools fail to provide students with factual, health-oriented information about the risks associated with guns and gun ownership. Much like the curricula provided to students concerning driving/motor vehicle accidents and sexual education, students should be taught the realities about gun violence, so they can make informed choices leading to safer homes, schools and communities.
Washington CeaseFire representatives provide nonpolitical, public health-oriented presentations on gun violence. Schools and educators are encouraged to reach out to us at washingtonceasefire.org to schedule a presentation. Students deserve to know this potentially lifesaving information.
Larry Wechsler, Edmonds, president, Washington CeaseFire
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