Mr. GRIMM. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to discuss the important issue of school safety. The tragedy in Newtown, Connecticut shocked and saddened us all. We must learn from this deplorable incident so our children and educators know their school is the one place they should feel the safest.

As we grapple with Newtown and other school tragedies, we have to discuss how these incidents could have been prevented and what steps should be taken to prevent something like Sandy Hook from happening again. As a former federal law enforcement agent, I recognize that our schools must be safe and secure, and I welcome this important discussion. I strongly believe that we must examine ways we can protect our schools through responsible security protocols, barriers, and training.

However, I must share my objection to the idea of allowing educators to carry weapons in schools. As a supporter of the Second Amendment, my objection has nothing to do with gun rights. I object to this proposal because our schools are--and must remain--a safe haven for teaching and learning. School administrators, teachers, counselors, nurses and the many other support professionals all have unique roles and responsibilities for ensuring a productive learning environment for children in their schools. We should not diminish the importance of allowing teachers to teach, principals to lead, and counselors and nurses to care by also asking that they serve as armed security.