Ensuring the Safety of Students with Disabilities During Active Shooter Situations

In light of the recent tragic shootings at Apalachee High School in Georgia and Joppatowne High School in Maryland, where students and teachers lost their lives, it has become more pressing than ever to address how schools can better protect all students in active shooter situations. For students with disabilities, these events expose even more vulnerabilities that must be taken seriously in emergency preparedness planning.

As someone who has lived with a disability my entire life and experienced lockdowns during school shootings, I know firsthand the terror and helplessness that can arise in these situations. It is time for educators and school administrators to develop tailored emergency plans that consider the specific needs of students with disabilities—those who may face additional barriers during these critical moments.

A Personal Reflection: Fear and Vulnerability in Lockdowns

Throughout my school career, one of my worst fears was what would happen if there was a school shooting. As someone with a disability, I was often unable to protect myself in the same way my peers could. While others could quickly duck behind chairs or under desks, I was left fully visible—vulnerable to anyone who might come through the door or pass by the window.

One particular incident during a lockdown at my elementary school still haunts me to this day. There was a man seen near the school with a gun, and we all scrambled to hide as best we could. But because of my mobility limitations, I couldn’t hide like my classmates. I sat near the window, fully exposed. I remember thinking that if someone outside looked in, they would see me, and that would automatically reveal the rest of my class.

I wrestled with the thought that if I somehow survived but my classmates didn’t, it would be my fault. It’s a weight that no child should have to carry, but I did. I worried that my disability would endanger the lives of others, and I wondered how I would live with myself if that happened. The fear was overwhelming—not just for my own safety but for the safety of those around me.

This experience made it clear to me that more needs to be done to protect vulnerable students during these emergencies. It’s not enough to have a general emergency plan; schools need to ensure that every student, regardless of their abilities, has a plan tailored to their specific needs.

1. Tailored Emergency Plans for Students with Disabilities

While schools have general emergency plans, these are often not sufficient for students with disabilities. Schools must create individualized safety plans that account for the specific needs of these students. Whether it’s a student using a wheelchair, someone with a sensory disorder, or a student relying on assistive technology, their needs must be part of the plan.

What can schools do?

• Collaborate with parents, teacher assistants, and students to develop personalized safety plans for each student with a disability.
• Identify safe zones where students with mobility challenges can be sheltered safely during an active shooter situation.
• Ensure there’s a clear communication plan for students who may not be able to respond to verbal instructions.

2. Training School Staff to Address Specific Needs

Educators and staff need more than just basic emergency training. They need to know how to assist students with disabilities during an active shooter situation. For example:

• How to communicate clearly and calmly with students who are non-verbal or use assistive technology.
• Evacuation procedures for students who cannot move quickly or independently, ensuring they can reach safety without creating further chaos.

Staff must also be trained to help students with cognitive disabilities or sensory sensitivities who may struggle to understand or respond to standard emergency protocols.

3. Involving Students with Disabilities in Emergency Drills

Students with disabilities must be actively included in all emergency drills to ensure they know what to do in a crisis and to make sure their needs are accounted for in the planning process. Schools need to:

• Ensure evacuation routes are fully accessible for students who use wheelchairs or mobility aids.
• Make sure aides or staff members who work with these students daily understand their roles in an emergency.

By practicing these drills with students who have disabilities, schools can ensure preparedness for every student.

4. Collaboration with Local Law Enforcement

Collaboration between schools and local law enforcement is crucial to ensuring that students with disabilities are properly accounted for during an emergency. Schools should:

• Brief law enforcement about students who may need extra assistance, ensuring they are a priority in the response.
• Train first responders on how to work with students who may react differently to loud sounds, flashing lights, or chaotic environments, particularly students with autism or sensory sensitivities.

This partnership can make all the difference in how students with disabilities are treated during a crisis.

5. Addressing the Reality of Vulnerability

In the wake of the recent Apalachee and Joppatowne High School shootings, it’s clear that preparedness must extend to every student. For students with disabilities, this means ensuring that their unique challenges are addressed in emergency plans. No child should have to fear that their disability could cost them their life or the lives of those around them.

These tragic events highlight how crucial it is for schools to take proactive steps to ensure the safety of every student, regardless of ability. We must demand comprehensive planning and preparation that doesn’t leave anyone behind.

Conclusion: We Must Do Better

As someone who has lived through the fear of lockdowns, I know how terrifying it can be to feel vulnerable simply because of a disability. Schools must step up and ensure that students with disabilities are not left behind in emergency planning. Every child deserves to feel safe in their school, and it’s up to us to ensure that our procedures reflect the diverse needs of all students. Do you think your school or workplace has a strong enough plan in place to support individuals with disabilities in the event of an emergency? Have you seen any gaps in how emergency drills are handled? Drop your thoughts in the comments below, and let’s start a conversation about ensuring everyone’s safety.