School shooting video divides Cranston parents

CRANSTON, R.I. (WLNE) — In the controversial video created by “Sandy Hook Promise,” students highlight their school essentials — including what they might need in an active shooter situation.

It left an impression on 12–year–old Bryanna Hernandez.

“It was sad,” said Hernandez, of Cranston, “because I don’t know if that’s going to happen to me.”

It happened at a California high school just yesterday.

Cranston Police say that’s one reason it’s important to show the video as part of their training in schools.

“It delivers a powerful message and it resonates with younger people by watching the video,” said Col. Michael Winquist, the police chief in Cranston. “The video’s very helpful because it talks about how certain items could be resourceful.”

But some parents are concerned the video is too jarring.

“It’s stirring up anxiety unnecessarily,” said a parent who wishes to remain anonymous. “Children already have anxiety, and some kids have a lot of it. And if your child doesn’t have it, it could bring on anxiety. To prepare our children to go to school in fear, I think is unfair. We have to let kids be kids.”

Other parents say the video adds to important discussions.

“It’s real,” said parent Cheryl Thurber. “It’s a threat that could actually happen. So I do think kids need to be prepared. I know I do talk to my own kids about the reality of school shootings and what to do if it were to happen at their school.”

Bryanna’s mom would’ve liked more warning about the video, but understands why it was shown.

“I would’ve liked, kind of, permission,” said Floricelda Hernandez. “It’s scary, it’s sad. And it’s happening more and more.”

Chief Winquist says students have the ability to opt out of seeing the video, but it’s a reality we all must face.

“There’s no easy way to deliver this important message about being prepared, god forbid a school shooting incident takes place in their school,” he said.

The police chief says because of the parent response, officers will now provide an additional verbal warning to students before playing the video.

The superintendent did not respond to our request for comment.

© WLNE-TV / ABC6 2019