With 2018 ranking as the worst year in gun violence history, Vancouver iTech Prep student voices her opinion on the controversy
Ninety-four school shootings make 2018 the worst year for school gun violence in history, according to the U.S. Center for Homeland Defense and Security, surpassing the record of 59 school shootings in 2006.
Vancouver iTech Preparatory, a high school located in the Clark College Building of the WSU Vancouver campus, has a population of about 343 students. Known as a STEM magnet campus, classes focus on science, technology, engineering, mathematics and liberal arts.
Kassandra Vogel, a high school senior at Vancouver iTech Preparatory, said the possibility of gun violence in school is on her mind regularly. “You see it on the news a lot. There [were] recently demonstrations at Clark College and WSU [Vancouver],” Vogel said, referencing the Patriot Prayer protests back in October. She continued,“I didn’t go to school that day. I mean, they had security here but it’s just not worth it. It’s just not worth the risk.”
Vogel said she believes there should be stricter gun laws. “I think we need more gun control laws in place. I know some people disagree with me, but they need to at least restrict access to guns.” She said she would feel better knowing that kids with parents who own guns could not access them easily.
“I didn’t go to school that day. I mean, they had security here but it’s just not worth it. It’s just not worth the risk.”
Kassandra Vogel, Vancouver iTech Prep. senior
By observing the giggles and sighs of what appeared to be frustrations, many of her fellow students did not agree with her views, but declined to comment on the situation. Staff members of Vancouver iTech Preparatory shared a similar refrain, with many also declining to comment for fear of expressing controversial views.
Derek Byrne, a physical education and health teacher at Vancouver iTech Preparatory said he feels safe in school due to strong support staff and administration. Despite this, he still puts emphasis on mental health education.
“I would like to see mental health addressed more in schools and through other community resources to help those in need get the resources they need to lead happy and healthy lives. I feel like mental health is the big issue and the area that needs to be focused upon more to reduce violence,” Byrne said.
He added, “I try to collaborate with the counselor to teach lessons and projects that focus on mental health for teens. I have also piloted mental health curriculum for the state of Washington.”
Ultimately, Byrne emphasized the importance of students being open and vocal about their feelings and ideas for promoting a safe environment. He also said that he hopes students will vote for appropriate policy changes when they are of age.
“I just say try to be nice to everyone.”
Kassanda Vogel
Vogel encouraged her fellow classmates to be kind to everyone and take necessary precautions, such as reporting any abnormal behaviors from fellow students.“It’s just really hard to predict and prevent it because you never know who could do it. It could really be anyone.” She added, “But I just say try to be nice to everyone.”
Anna Nelson is the Editor in Chief for the VanCougar. She is a senior and is studying strategic communications.