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Why School Safety is Important

The children of our community spend a significant portion of their waking hours in school. It is our shared responsibility to ensure that the students of the Fremont Unified School District have a safe and supportive learning environment. When children feel safe and secure in their school, they can focus on their education and reach their full potential.

We need to safeguard Fremont schools to prevent intruders, violence, shootings, and vaping at schools.

Below is a graphic from CNN showing the annual number of school shootings in America since 2008.

Shootings/Violence

Mental health problems like depression and anxiety can sometimes lead to concerning behaviors. It's crucial to recognize warning signs to prevent potential harm. Studies show that in all cases of targeted school violence, there were warning signs that were often missed.

Empowering students to seek help without fear or shame is vital. We must create a culture where students feel comfortable reporting concerns about their own mental health or that of their peers. This requires ongoing education and support. While American High School has a yearly presentation on warning signs, it's clear that a single presentation isn't enough.

We need to make mental health awareness a consistent part of our school culture. This could include:

• Regular reminders and discussions about warning signs throughout the year.

• Incorporating mental health topics into other school activities.

• Providing resources and support for students who need help.

By creating a supportive and informed environment, we can help prevent tragedies and ensure the safety and well-being of all students.

Other Causes of School Violence

• Bullying

Students who are bullied and victimized are more likely to engage in school violence. We need to put a stop to bullying and make students feel more comfortable going to a trusted adult if they are being bullied at school. Similar to the warning signs presentation, the High Schools in Fremont could do more about tackling it to make students feel comfortable going to a trusted adult or stopping bullying in the first place. Bullying needs to be talked about more in schools.

• Violence at home

Students who experience violence at home or in their communities may be more likely to act out in school. For many students, school is a safe haven from the challenges they face outside of school.

One way to create a more supportive environment for students is to extend the hours of the school library. This would provide a safe and supervised space for students to relax, study, or simply escape from the stresses of their home lives. Parents could even volunteer to supervise the library after school hours, further enhancing the sense of community and support.