Currently researching school shootings for a paper. The scariest thing is that there is no consistent red flag. The description fits about 5% of teenagers at some point in their lives.
The second scariest thing is that the Vtech guy passed a background check to purchase 2 handguns legally. After being diagnosed with a major social disorder, displaying schizophrenic tendencies, writing an essay calling the Columbine kids "martyrs," stalking and making unwanted aggressive moves towards females, and last, but not least, being declared a harm to himself and others by a judge and being institutionalized shortly.
I wholeheartedly agree that employees of educational institutions should be allowed to carry. I think metal detectors and security personnel are unnecessary at around 85% of schools nation wide, and really just a huge drain on the budget. Small incentives, such as 1 paid day off per month for range time for employees who choose to carry at work, is a much more fiscally feasible responsibility. If I were ever an employer, I would definetly institute such a policy, but require evidence that they actually went to the range that day, and carry regularly at work. Just some thoughts.
jthhapkido, excellent logic! Do you mind if I steal that debate point from you? I often have to try to educate naive, usually younger, college students. Surprisingly, most of the professors and staff usually agree with me.
The other thing I would like to bring up; I own my own house, I work, and I go to college. The only time I find myself on campus is for class or to meet with a professor. I don't "party" and I rarely drink at all. I'm not sure I am comfortable with the idea of drunken frat kids being allowed weapons on campus, but lumping me in that category is quite honestly offensive. Does the State of Nebraska or my educational institution assume the liability if I am wounded or killed by a gunman while in a classroom and my handgun is in my vehicle?
I'm actually thinking of having my will rewritten that should I be killed in such a scenario, in any gun-free area, that my remaining assets be used to file a claim against whichever organization is responsible for said victim-zone.
What I would suggest is a shall-issue policy of a second, college issued, CCW for non-traditional students, such as myself. Just a thought.