Should Schools Offer Gun Safety Education Classes?

Guns and their safe handling have become a contentious issue in many parts of the world, especially in regions with strict gun control laws. In Tennessee, where the purchase and possession of handguns by individuals under 18 are prohibited, the question arises: should schools offer gun safety classes to students to ensure they understand the legal use and consequences of firearms?

Mandating Gun Safety Education

Absolutely, schools should offer both mandatory and voluntary gun safety education classes. The mandatory version would provide a basic understanding of firearm safety, similar to the Eddie Eagle program, to all students. This course should be structured to be taught during the semester preceding or following each sex education course. For example, if sex education starts in the fourth grade, the firearm safety education would begin around the same time.

For more advanced firearm safety training, a voluntary high school-level course would be offered. This course would cover topics such as safe handling, marksmanship, and the use of single-shot air rifles and bolt-action magazine-fed rimfire rifles. Parents would need to give their approval, and students would also need to be cleared by a school psychologist for enrollment.

Challenges to Gun Safety Programs

Despite the potential benefits, there are significant challenges to implementing these programs. One such challenge is the potential loss of federal funding for school Archery or Shotgun Teams due to new rules from the Biden Department of Education. These rules have made it clear that schools must either eliminate these teams or ensure they do not engage in any form of educational instruction.

Federal Civilian Marksmanship Program

Another aspect to consider is participation in the Federal Civilian Marksmanship Program (CMP). This program has been in operation for decades and provides safe and controlled environments for individuals to engage with firearms. Schools should encourage all students to participate in this program, which aligns with the goal of promoting responsible firearm handling and education.

Addressing Misinformation and Rhetoric

Some individuals argue against gun safety education, often fueled by misinformation and emotional fears. For instance, there have been claims that schools were safe until 1871 and that firearm safety education is unnecessary. Such arguments are baseless and reveal a lack of understanding of both history and current gun laws, as well as recent events. Emotions and irrational fears often cloud clear reasoning, making it difficult to have a rational discussion.

Others argue that teaching firearm safety to "troublemakers" is irresponsible. However, such a stance neglects the fact that proper education can prevent accidents and improper use of firearms. Negligent discharges and unsafe handling are far more dangerous than well-informed handling practices. Similarly, guns do not pose a greater risk than knives, chemistry labs, or sex education, as these tools and subjects can also be misused by untrained individuals.

In conclusion, schools should indeed offer gun safety classes to ensure that students understand the legal and responsible use of firearms. The benefits of such education far outweigh any potential drawbacks, and it is crucial to provide students with the knowledge needed to handle firearms safely and responsibly.