After the tragic shooting at Apalachee High School in Georgia, where four individuals lost their lives, educators around the country are turning to social media to share strategies for keeping their students calm during such emergencies.
The incident, which left several others injured, has highlighted the urgent need for effective emergency protocols in schools. In light of recent events, teachers are increasingly discussing practical tips online—one such teacher, @mrwilliamsprek on TikTok, gained massive attention with his advice that racked up nearly 3 million views.
In his popular video titled Lollipops can’t prevent what happened at Apalachee High School, Mr. Williams recounted a veteran kindergarten teacher’s tactic: having a stash of Dum-Dum lollipops to hand out to students during lockdowns. He noted, “If they’re busy eating, they can’t cry.” This simple yet effective method resonated with many, garnering over 450,000 likes and plentiful comments from fellow educators sharing their own strategies.
One teacher shared that she teaches sign language songs during lockdowns, creating a serene and collaborative atmosphere. She also described how her classroom has a specific corner with metal bookshelves that can be moved to form a barrier, emphasizing the importance of having enough materials, like textbooks, for each student to use as shields.
Additionally, she fosters open communication with her students about their fears, especially regarding bullying and safety. Engaging in deep conversations helps her establish a trustful environment where students feel comfortable discussing their concerns.
David Riedman, who founded the K-12 School Shooting Database, emphasizes the necessity of preventative measures in schools. Since researching school shooting trends post-Parkland shooting, he advocates for fully funded crisis intervention programs to address potential risks in communities before they escalate into violence.
The collective insights from teachers not only underscore the importance of preparedness but also highlight the compassion and creativity educators employ in the face of challenging situations.
