Students: Are They Really Safe?

Riley+Ebner+gives+a+powerful+speech+to+students+covering+safety%2C+congress+and+guns.

Riley Ebner gives a powerful speech to students covering safety, congress and guns.

Adam Horwath, Contributing Writer

Signs from the walk out event at North High, March 14th, 2018

“A student’s fear of not being safe is real” –Ms. Crothers.

Schools around the United States are at risk now more than ever. On February 14th, 2018, another school shooting occurred at Parkland High School in Florida, killing 17 students. After this shooting happened, American students started to question their safety more than ever.

Although some students do not feel safe, 75% of the people surveyed said schools are safe. One student that says schools are not safe said this “because there is still violence happening in them.” This student is Riley Ebner, one of the leaders of the walk out at North High on March 14th, 2018. An adult on the other hand Spanish teacher Crothers says “I think administrators and teachers across the country are doing what they can to keep students safe. However, the fear and anxiety of mass shootings is real and sadly, schools have become a target for this.”

Ebner believes students can help this issue. They can “do anything to let government know they’ve had enough! They [students] can speak their mind on social media, at protests or even write to the government and media outlets.” Chris Horwath, mother of triplets and wife believes students should “Fight for what you know needs to change.” Brad Horwath, brother of mine and son of Chris believes as a student body we should “voice our opinions on the issues. We are the future and we can change society.” Ms. Crothers believes it would be wise for students to  “do everything you can to lift each other up and reach out to students who need a little help.”

Everyone surveyed said congress is not doing enough. Horwath states “congress needs to listen to our high school students. They will be voting soon. They are a generation of cyber bullying, school lockdowns, school fights and way too many school shootings.” Ebner says “no, action has not been taken by congress since Columbine.” Ebner feels strongly about gun violence, especially in schools, so there is no coincidence that she gave the incredibly insightful opening speech at North High’s walk out.

I was highly impressed with the results I received from the people I surveyed. This topic can be controversial. I believe they can speak on behalf of all students and adults in America. In conclusion, schools in America are trying their hardest to keep their students safe. Until change occurs, these strong inspiring students and teachers will keep up the fight for life.

Riley Ebner gives a powerful speech to students covering safety, congress and guns.

(Adam Horwath)