Dissertations and Theses @ UNI

Availability

Open Access Dissertation

Abstract

As school shootings remain a persistent threat to PK-12 education, this quantitative survey study examines the preparedness levels and beliefs of 75 out of 277 Iowa superintendents regarding active shooter events. In the wake of the 2024 tragedy in Perry, Iowa, results indicate a near-universal recognition of risk (97.3%), prompting a shift toward "muscle memory" training and the adoption of the Standard Response Protocol (SRP) to ensure a common language during a crisis. The data reveals a significant move away from high-intensity simulations in favor of trauma-informed tabletop exercises, alongside a definitive rejection of arming educators (0%) due to insurance constraints and philosophical concerns. While districts have successfully implemented "funnel-model" access controls and reunification protocols, a critical "medical integration gap" remains, highlighting a lack of specialized life-saving teams. Ultimately, this research identifies a systemic struggle to balance physical hardening with psychological well-being, emphasizing that while procedural architecture is maturing, long-term financial and emotional sustainability remains a primary challenge for leadership. This study provides administrators with a data-driven baseline to move from theoretical compliance toward genuine institutional resilience.

Year of Submission

2026

Degree Name

Doctor of Education

Department

Department of Educational Leadership and Postsecondary Education

First Advisor

Robert Boody

Date Original

2026

Object Description

1 PDF file (x, 188 pages)

Language

en

File Format

application/pdf

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