Page 7 - My FlipBook

Schools Should Be Equipped with

Metal Detectors

“I walk through the metal detectors daily. Guards
check my bag, and on days of heightened security, I

may have to show ID. I don’t question it; I fi nd solace
in knowing the origins, in knowing that I’ll be safe
while I work.”

—Joy Mohammed, a teacher at an inner-city Detroit high school
Joy Mohammed, “Opinion: In Defense of School Metal Detectors,” School Leaders Now, April 11, 2018.
https://schoolleadersnow.weareteachers.com.

Consider these questions as you read:
1. Do you agree that installing metal detectors in schools makes schools
safer? Why or why not?
2. Do you believe that using metal detectors to screen everyone who en-
ters a school building is practical? Explain your answer.
3. When considering the value of metal detectors in schools, should the
importance of peace of mind outweigh concerns about cost? Explain
your answer.

Editor’s note: Th e discussion that follows presents common arguments made in support of this perspective,
reinforced by facts, quotes, and examples taken from various sources.

Metal detectors are a vital element in preventing school shootings. In
order to keep fi rearms and other weapons out of schools, it is necessary
fi rst to detect them in the possession of those trying to enter the school.
Once found, a gun can be confi scated and the off ender dealt with by
school authorities or the police. Th ere is no simpler, more cost-eff ective
way to prevent students or other persons from sneaking fi rearms into

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