Exploring Why Ohio Schools Are Equipping Educators with Firearms

In 2017, West Liberty-Salem High School became the scene of a shooting incident that left physical scars in the form of bullet holes in a bathroom wall, but the emotional impact remains with the community. Principal Greg Johnson noted the lasting impact of that day, even after learning there were no fatalities.

On that tragic day, principals Johnson and Andy McGill had to act swiftly to aid a wounded student while another student had opened fire just steps away. McGill successfully managed to persuade the shooter to lay down the weapon.

In response, both administrators took initiatives to bolster school security – opting for bulletproof glass, improved emergency exits, and hiring a school resource officer, but intentionally chose not to arm teachers or staff.

However, Ohio is witnessing a shift as currently 14% of its districts have opted to allow firearms on campus, a decision made by many schools across 15 states, according to Everytown for Gun Safety.

In contrast, the Mad River Local School District, near Dayton, has taken the step of distributing firearms to roughly 20 teachers whose identities remain a closely guarded secret.

Superintendent Chad Wyen is the sole named staff member carrying a firearm. His approach involves storing the weapon securely in a coded cabinet, ensuring it remains near but not directly on teachers.

He stated, 'Typically, a round is ready to go. Preparation is key,' indicating these measures are in place because one security officer cannot simultaneously cover all eight schools in the district.

Despite not having faced any gun incidents, Wyen claims parent response has been largely supportive, viewing the guns as an additional safety measure.

A teacher, who remains anonymous, acknowledges the grim prospect of potentially confronting a student wielding a gun. 'In such instances, my priority is to neutralize the threat to protect lives,' she expressed.

Regarding opposition to guns in schools, she remarked, 'I comprehend their apprehensions. I shared similar worries before becoming acquainted with using firearms as protective tools.'

Furthermore, she stated her willingness to risk her life to shield a student from harm, underscoring her commitment to the students' safety.

Inside America's School Safety Debate

Nikki Battiste, a nationally-acclaimed CBS News correspondent, has covered this challenging topic, adding it to her portfolio of award-winning journalism that covers nationwide issues.