MONROE, CT — In the past couple of years, social media and every news station have been filled with stories of gun violence, most prominently in schools. Now, along with homework, friends and their next math test, in the back of students’ minds is the “what-if” question. Unfortunately for Masuk students, it did become a reality for them following the stay-put and after-school lockdown, just two weeks apart.
“Especially this year with the rising statistics of gun violence in schools, it opened my eyes to the fact that that could happen,” said Masuk student Aidan England. “Now after the stay-put, it is more on my mind.”
The concerns of students today are vastly different from those of the generations before them, as threats inside a school were never heard of until recent years.
“I have an escape route for every class I am in,” said Masuk student Kaela Christiano. “I hope I never have to use it but, sadly, I have to think of things like that.”
Now, with two threats made at Masuk in two weeks, students are on high alert at school, and the “what-if” questions have become a reality.
“I was driving to school today when I saw a police car driving toward Masuk, and all I could think of was, ‘is something happening again?’ It is now constantly on my mind,” said Masuk student Muriel Bailey.
Schools are supposed to be institutions that foster learning and growth of young minds, in a safe and secure environment. Fortunately, Masuk administrators and teachers responded quickly and efficiently to the stay-put and lockdown situations, confirming to students and parents that Masuk is a safe place.
“I felt that the situation was handled very well, administrators and the Monroe Police Department were quick to respond, and I felt in good hands during the duration of the stay-put,” said Christiano.
Ann Odoy, head of the guidance department at Masuk, shared her insight on the precautions Masuk and the community take to ensure the safety of all students.
“What I do know and I am reassured of is that Connecticut has some of the most stringent laws in our country for gun control, we have trained police officers, SROs, security personnel, and administration who are trained in all the protocols,” said Odoy.
Additionally, the Masuk guidance department has made it clear to students that they are available to all who are distressed because of the recent events, offering emotional help and resources to those who need it.
“School counselors are always available to all students to discuss challenges, difficulties or issues that they are dealing with,” said Odoy. “Our social worker is also available to discuss with students personal ways to be ‘ok’, to relieve stress, or to figure out the triggers or reasons behind the feeling.”
There is no easy way around the reality of the issue we face today with gun violence in schools. But with the support of administrators, guidance counselors, and our student body, we can all work together towards making the Masuk community a safe and secure place.
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