Kern Youth Weigh in on KHSD’s Decision to Allow Guns on Campus

August 26, 2016 /

By Jesus Meraz

Editor’s Note: The Kern High School District Board of Trustees recently voted 4-0, with one member abstaining, in favor of allowing non-employees with a Conceal Carry Weapons (CCW) permit to bring firearms onto the district’s more than two-dozen high school campuses. The vote generated strong reactions from many in the community who felt the board disregarded their opinions. South Kern Sol’s Jesus Meraz spoke to local students about the vote and whether they think people should be allowed to carry weapons on campus.

I’m conflicted. Yes, it does help protect people because they will be armed to prevent any incidents. But what if a student attempts to take a gun? –Tyler Smith, North High School

I’m against it because I don’t think anyone needs to conceal carry on a high school campus, especially when they already have police officers there. –Jonathon Vilcapoma, Fresno State

I’m against it because the students didn’t have a say in it and may feel even more unsafe because of the vote.
–Cindy Vilcapoma, Student at CSUB 

It’s unnecessary because the level of violence isn’t there for people to have to carry on campus. However, as long as they’re trained and have all the necessary evaluations for it than maybe it could be helpful.
–Transjot Manku, South High School

I think it could be beneficial because if someone is on campus carrying when there is an armed shooter than they could possibly prevent it. –Navneet Dhindsa, Student at CSUB Student

I feel insecure because anyone could take advantage of the permit and it doesn’t seem like it would be too hard to get one.
–Ravjodh Heer, Stockdale High School