Tragic events, such as the ones at Columbine High School and Stoneman Douglas High School, have left a permanent imprint in the minds and hearts of many Americans. Young Americans are all but left to wonder what would happen if such an event would occur in their schools. In turn, high schools across the country were pushed to answer the question of safety. Due to recent events, Mounds View High School’s very own students and staff faced a scenario where their safety was questioned. 

As rumors and doubts arose, Principal Stephanie Bruggers responded in an email. “We are aware of online threats of violence made against our school this weekend [10/3],” Bruggers said. “Together, our school and the Ramsey County Sheriff’s Department take threats like these very seriously, and we will continue to partner to ensure that our school remains a safe environment for our students and staff.” 

However, as Monday approached, some students made the decision to stay home. “Better safe than sorry. One day of school is nothing in comparison to my life. My parents and I didn’t know enough from the school, and they didn’t explain information [as] to why it was safe,” said Sydney Malecha, 12.  

In spite of safety concerns shared by numerous members of the student body, many still found that Mound View did all it could and properly addressed the problem. “They were aware of the issue and they got on top of it,” said Angie Randolph, 10. “Nothing more could have been done.” 

Others share their wishes that teachers and staff would have been more reassuring. “They definitely should have said something about [the event] and encouraged us to go home if we didn’t feel safe and tell us what to do,” said Elyse Merrill, 12. Some agreed, saying the silence didn’t help.

“They really tried to keep quiet about it,” said Hazel Houle, 11. 

However, some say safety measures beforehand ensured their well-being. “The whole fire drills, lockdown drills, plus any teacher will tell you to follow rules [as well as] their own expectations,” said Isabel Kraabel, 12. 

For some, teachers helped the most. “They show that they cared,” said Maren Archibald, 11. 

Along with usual safety measures, Mounds View implemented a higher police presence on campus. Many found this assuring, even if a little overcautious. “I don’t think they have a daily need, but it is nice to just have them here for that extra amount of security,” Kraabel said. Many shared a similar mindset.

“It would completely discourage a shooter in the event of the shooting. They would be here and would be helpful, but I don’t see any other purpose,” Malecha said. 

While it is hard to remove the past imprints of tragic events, schools everywhere progress towards a safer future. As America pushes away from the circumstances of the past, students and staff alike continue to push for a secure learning environment.