The Columbine High School massacre in 1999 that left 12 people dead and 21 injured brought the need to address school safety and security to the forefront. In 2007, the Virginia Tech massacre left 32 people dead and many injured. This most recent incident highlights the importance of maintaining a safe and secure environment for students.

Causes of these incidents have been blamed on a variety of factors. Supporter of anti-gun laws placed the blame squarely on gun ownership. As information became available regarding the shooters background, video games and music were considered the motivators that initiated the shootings.

The social climate of schools have been highlighted as a result of the shootings. The isolation experienced by students who are excluded from group activities can be indicators of potential future issues. Acts of bullying increases the chance of retaliatory incidents.

Schools have reacted to the need for increased safety in a variety of ways. Every educational institution is required to implement a security plan for their building. Follow up to the established plan includes training and exercises as well as updates when deficiencies are identified. Security drills are the most effective when both staff and students participate and honest auditing is performed. Additional security measures that are provided by some schools include surveillance cameras and metal detectors.

Parents play a crucial role in their child’s safety and can make a difference by being armed with knowledge. A parents review and support of the school policies and procedures is critical to success. Consideration of others must be supported by the school and parents in order to eliminate the atmosphere of bullying. Active participation of all parties will allow open communication and increase the chances of prohibiting a future school massacre.