Reported in 2018 (and it is only February), we have already had 18 incidences of a gun fired in a school in America. In light of what we have heard so far in the recent shooting in Parkland, Florida, 17 students have died. This is indeed a tragedy, one in which we all grieve for the families who have lost their children.
School shootings have become a horrifying truth that can leave all parents and students hypersensitive and anxiety-driven.
Nikolas Cruz, a 19-year-old, is the suspect in the Parkland shooting. He had previously participated in mental health programs, been expelled from school, and posted some very disturbing high threat social media.
Clearly the warning signs were there as was a chance to deal with his issues. Unfortunately those moments passed, and he became an active shooter.
Lakeside can help troubled students and avert tragedies
The Parkland incident is both tragic and devastating; yet, we still have the opportunity to save other lives and help students make better decisions.
I also think it is extremely valuable to view our Trauma Training for Educators on LakesideLink.com. Our Trauma Training is now available live, in broadcast format and on-demand.
We believe every teacher should know what we teach in our Neurologic professional development sessions. We offer a 4-hour training session, as well as coaching for teachers. Maybe tragedies like Parkland can be prevented as we understand the tragedy and gravity of this type of incident.
Our hearts and prayers go out to these families, the students and to this school staff. We know that this is traumatizing for them.
We also recognize that the school shooting problem is becoming epidemic, which is why our educational institutions have to raise their awareness and ensuing activity to protect students and staff. It is one reason Lakeside is working to provide training and support for our schools and students through our Neurologic Initiative.
You can learn more if you go to our website at www.lakesidelink.com.
Gerry Vassar, President & CEO of Lakeside
