If we see something we should say something

Published 11:15 am Sunday, March 11, 2018

In recent weeks school safety has been a main topic of discussion both locally and nationally, particularly since the school shooting in Parkland, Fla. 

While conversation on what preventative steps can be taken to keep students and staff safe, there is a second conversation to be had that should not be over-emphasized. Parents, and all adults, must be proactive in encouraging students to be alert and forthcoming when they encounter concerns and potential warning signs. When it comes to guns and school safety, over-communicating is always better than remaining silent, and adults need to make sure that young people are comfortable with coming forward if they have information that could potentially prevent a school shooting. 

Since the Florida shooting we’ve heard the voices of young people on the issue of gun violence and school safety. While we may not all agree on the stance these young people are taking on the issue, we can surely agree that they are passionate and engaged. We must harness their level of altruism by encouraging them to come forward when they sense warning signs. 

Although there is no single profile for school shooters, people at risk for hurting themselves or others do often exhibit warning signs before committing acts of violence. Knowing the signs can help prevent crimes and get people the help they need. 

Perhaps too often, we’ve trained ourselves to mind our own business and leave the interventions to others. But as hindsight has proven with regard to mass shootings in recent years, there are often warning signs. We if we see something we should say something. 

Parents and adults should remind young people that it’s OK to come forward if they suspect something amiss and we must engage with them in conversations so that concerns can be properly communicated to school authorities. 

The more we all make an effort to keep at watchful eye and engage in conversations with young people to encourage them to communicate what they know, the better. 

A community-wide effort is needed with everyone on the alert.