In light of the recent shooting at Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School in Parkland, Florida, which left 17 people dead, Donald Trump posed a controversial idea on Thursday, Feb. 22 stating that certain “Highly adept people, people who understand weaponry” would receive a “bit of a bonus” to carry a rearm with them on school grounds and learn how to use them. This includes teachers, security guards, office workers, any staff member who is willing to spend time growing proficient with guns.  

Many teachers have taken to Twitter, Facebook, and other social media amid this controversy to push for better classroom resources for their kids, instead of carrying guns in school. This started the #ArmMeWith movement where teachers would take a picture of themselves holding a sign reading “#ArmMeWith” followed by far more feasible and important suggestions.

For example, Katie Austin (@austinkatie_) held a sign reading “#ArmMeWith Books Not Bullets.” Lindsey Paull (@Miss_Johnston5) on Twitter held a sign reading “#ArmMeWith books… because 6 year olds need to learn to read, not be scared in class.” Priscila Fojan (@msfojan) wants to be armed with “proactive changes in legislation that will promote a safe place for me to teach my students to be kind and caring members of our society.”

There are thousands of other teachers around the nation holding their own signs, protesting against a violence that can not be imagined unlessed experienced. Kids are meant to feel safe in school,  connect with friends and teachers, and learn to feel welcome in an increasingly unwelcoming society. So far, President Trump’s suggestion is only that: A suggestion. Seeing his increasing want to “harden” our school system, these words may turn into action to the dismay of thousands nationwide.

If you are, or know, a teacher who would like to join this movement, you can find the template here: www.weareteachers.com/armmewith/and add your own solution.