oppose the National Rifle Association's "National School Shield" program

The presence of armed guards has not prevented the tragedy of school massacres thus far, and while law enforcement officers can play other useful roles in a school setting, mandating even one officer per school would cost billions of dollars per year -- money that is desperately needed for basic educational needs and the more useful solution of counseling. The suggestion that teachers, school administrators, or "volunteers" should be armed is an invitation to more, not less, killing, and further degrades our national culture and our children's future. The NRA's position on this issue is compromised by their financial relationship with gun manufacturers. Please oppose this measure and work toward a reduction rather than an increase of gun violence in America.