In view of the series of school shootings, there needs to be a deterrent established that either: 1) convinces the shooter not to embark on this journey, or 2) the shooter is met with immediate resistance.

The answer is to have faculty members in the school who are trained and have immediate access to weapons with stopping power. The weapons can be secured from student discovery when not in use.

There are capable teachers in most schools who would be willing to take on this adult responsibility to protect children. This program can avoid the expense of an equivalent number of armed guards.

This program can be enacted without federal approval. It does not restrict anyone’s freedom; however, we need stricter screening of gun purchasers.

It is better to establish this program prophylactically rather than after the fact. Who knows what school is next?

Thomas F. Shields

Auburn