SCHOOL SAFETY IN THE UNITED STATES: ROLE OF SCHOOL CULTURE AND STUDENT ENGAGEMENT

As of May 28, 2018 there were 28 school shootings in the United States where someone was hurt or killed. That averages out to more than one shooting a week [1]. A limited meta-analysis was conducted to determine underlying causes for this nationwide emergency, ascertain theories to address possible variables affecting marginalized students and gather common themes and patterns to provide concrete and clear recommendations to enhance safety before, during and after a crisis. This paper will include those recommendations as well as a discussion on the strategies to advance the mental well-being of both staff and students as a method to prevent future school shootings and tragedies which change lives forever.