Bullying

                All over the news this week is Chardon High School, and the shooting that occurred there Monday, February 27, during lunch. The shooter killed three fellow students and injured two. The 17-year-old shooter is more than likely going to be tried as an adult. It is said that he chose his victims randomly when he opened fire in the school cafeteria.

                The question of his reasoning is on most people’s minds. His answer: bullying. Bullying is affecting everyone more than ever now-a-days, and students have acted out by taking their own lives, or – as this student did – taking the lives of others.

                Many parents look at this with an insensitive eye – that is, until they are affected. Not enough is being done in public schools to keep bullies at bay. In many schools, the teachers themselves are the bullies.

                Something needs to happen. Action needs to be taken to keep our schools safe. A zero-tolerance on bullying and stricter punishment for bullies need to be implemented in high schools and middle schools. Along with that, schools should have “safe spaces” where kids can come together and talk about things that are going on with them; either at home, school, work, or where ever. Supportive clubs like the Gay-Straight Alliance, or First Priority must be allowed in order to assure a safe school environment.

                Situations like that of Chardon High School can be avoided by harboring at-risk students and punishing bullies. It is very un-costly to implement these devices and, anyways, at what price would you keep  your students safe?