Another Policy Rat Race?

In light of the Virginia Tech shootings, along with issues regarding gun control, safety and mental health on school campuses are now being re-evaluated. Parents are calling in, students are cautious, and administrations are in frenzy. Recently, on the 27^th of April, U.S. Secretary of Education Margaret Spellings released a statement. In Spelling’s press release, she calls for a national dialogue regarding the next course of action of safety in schools. Along with email, a website has been set up in order for people to post their suggestions, concerns, opinions, etc. Next month she will be giving a report to President Bush, compiling the suggestions made from people across the nation.

Spellings states, “"Nothing is more important to American parents than the safety of their children," said Secretary Spellings. "I invite all concerned Americans—parents, educators, law enforcement officials and students—to share their ideas about school safety online at safeschools@ed.gov. Together, we can strengthen our best practices, raise awareness of warning signs and help prevent tragedies."

With this policy window that has opened due to an event, what solutions will be attached? It is clear that a discussion is in order regarding safety and mental health on school campuses, yet will this be another rat race where policy entrepreneurs run for the door at the same time?