Recent studies show school shooter drills’ lack of efficiency

By Kareena Dhillon

Executive Opinion Editor

There have been recent studies that have shown school drills, specifically those to prepare for an active shooter on campus, can be more mentally damaging than efficient at helping students prepare for an emergency. Based on recent data, it would be most beneficial to include other preventative measures regarding safety in the event of a school shooting, in addition to school drills on campus. 

According to child psychiatrist and Assistant Professor at Harvard Medical School Steven Schlozman, researchers have collected anecdotal evidence showing that school drills can be difficult for kids with anxiety and developmental disorders. 

In 2014, the National Association of School Psychologists and the National Association of School Resource Officers issued joint guidance that cautioned that while drills have the potential to save lives, those “not conducted properly” can cause “physical and psychological harm to students, staff and the overall learning environment.”

This is not to say that school attacker drills in California should be completely eradicated, as they are crucial for preparing students and staff for the correct response during an  emergency. However, they should be re-evaluated for their efficiency and benefit to students. Active shooter drills themselves have become much more relevant over the years according to counselor Keshia Fields. Costa also implemented the Scholar Chip in January of 2019, which keeps track of all visitors and provides them with proper identification for the day, said Fields. 

At Costa, the Safety Committee consists of active administrators, teachers, and other security personnel on campus. The committee meets after every school drill to discuss and bring up any issues to Committee Chairperson Stephanie Hall. Over the years such issues include how to educate substitute teachers on what to do during a drill according to former committee member, Lindsay Valbuena.

There are several variables that contribute to the occurrence of school shootings, and schools across the nation should do their part to make themselves available for students’ needs beyond fulfilling what is required. Safety precautions should be consistently re-evaluated to ensure they are effective. 

The political and social climate in the United States is constantly changing, and the Costa community must do its part to change as well. Although school drills are a proactive method to addressing school shooters, and a necessity due to state laws, there are other equally effective and beneficial measures that students should be educated about and made aware of to help them feel safe.