Educators for Gun Safety

In response to the alarming rise in children impacted by gun violence and accidental shootings, educators from public and public charter schools across St. Louis came together in the spring of 2022. United by a shared concern for the safety of their students, these educators launched a movement to raise awareness around gun safety and take proactive steps to help save lives. 

This collaboration led to the creation of Educators for Gun Safety (EGS). Initially, the initiative began as a broad community effort that included partnerships with the Office of the Mayor, the St. Louis Board of Mental Health, the St. Louis Metropolitan Police, and Women’s Voices Raised for Social Justice.  EGS quickly gained momentum, with Confluence Academies and Saint Louis Public Schools (SLPS) partnering to host several free gun lock distribution events. 

Recognizing the importance of involving those who’ve grown up with gun violence, either in their homes, communities, or experienced active shooter drills at school, EGS expanded its efforts to include our students in this important conversation. In May 2023, students from Confluence Academies and St. Louis Public Schools came together for a panel discussion about gun safety and gun violence and its effects on their lives at home and school. This insightful conversation empowered our youth, showing their desire to continue the conversation and take an active role in addressing this issue. 

In April 2024, student ambassadors from Confluence Academies visited Jefferson City, Missouri, where they spent the day meeting with lawmakers and gaining a deeper understanding of the legislative process at their State Capitol. These students are now eager to work with legislators in taking steps to benefit their communities and others across Missouri.