FORT LAUDERDALE, Fla. (AP) — The nation's two largest education unions are reiterating their opposition to arming teachers as a response to school shootings, saying more guns on campuses will make them less safe.
The American Federation of Teachers and the National Education Association joined with Everytown for Gun Safety on Monday to oppose proposals in Florida and elsewhere to arm some teachers and staff members. The anniversary of the Marjory Stoneman High School massacre that left 17 dead is Thursday.
The Florida Legislature is considering a recommendation by the commission that investigated the shooting to allow school districts to arm volunteer teachers who undergo background checks and training.
The groups say they oppose the measures for several reasons, including the possibility of students stealing teachers' guns and responding officers confusing teachers for the shooter.
