From the manifesto of the Minneapolis Catholic School shooter:

“I recently heard a rumor that James Holmes, the Aurora theater shooter may have chosen venues that were “gun-free zones.” “Gun-Free Zone” Because the Victims are Defenseless. “That’s why I and many others like schools so much.” 

The most horrific event that touches the heart of the nation is when our children are ruthlessly gunned down, unprotected and vulnerable.

At the Idaho Second Amendment Alliance, we have long fought for the right of teachers and staff to exercise their constitutional right to defend life and be armed on school campuses.

Purdue University’s Homeland Security Institute research indicates that the most effective protection for schools involves combining School Resource Officers with armed staff.

This approach can reduce fatalities by more than 80%. Armed staff members do not hunt attackers; they are to shelter with their students and act only if a classroom or office is breached.

Every armed volunteer protects their students and colleagues. While only about 10% of Ohio schools currently participate, the rapid growth shows momentum. Programs like FASTER are helping to safeguard children in Ohio.

Idaho’s legislature has had multiple bills presented over the years to ensure the ability of school staff to carry firearms, positioning them to better protect the lives of Idaho children, only to have them stopped by committee chairmen.