In brief
Amid rising concerns about gun safety, states like Arkansas, Tennessee, and Utah have introduced laws mandating safety lessons in schools for children as young as five. These lessons focus on what to do if a child encounters a gun, including instructions to stop, don’t touch, leave quickly, and tell an adult. Berclair Elementary in Memphis has begun using engaging methods like relay races and catchy jingles to teach the concepts. Supporters argue that these lessons can save lives, while critics urge focus on adult accountability for secure firearm storage.
NASHVILLE, Tenn. — This school year, elementary, middle, and high school students in several states are receiving new lessons on safety regarding firearms. Arkansas, Tennessee, and Utah are the first states to mandate that schools teach children, some as young as five, the basics of gun safety and proper gun storage.
Utah's law uniquely allows students to opt out if requested by parents, while similar proposals in Arizona were vetoed. Lawmakers across at least five other states are proposing similar educational initiatives as a response to growing concerns about gun violence.
In Tennessee, the lessons may involve creative tools like stickers, games, and music, featuring friendly illustrations of guns. In classroom discussions, nearly all fifth graders at Berclair Elementary reported seeing real guns, highlighting the need for such education.
“A program like this is essential,” said Tammie Chapman, a health instructor at the school. The lessons, adapted from existing hunter safety courses, emphasize the mantra: stop, don’t touch, leave quickly, and tell an adult.
With 2022 CDC data indicating firearms as the leading cause of death among children and teens, this initiative aims to empower students to engage in conversations about safety at home and foster awareness about responsible gun ownership among adults.
However, the initiative has sparked debate, with critics arguing more needs to be done to hold adults accountable for the safety of children around firearms instead of placing the onus on kids.
