Why Schools Should Offer Teachers Bulletproof Clothing

School should be a safe place—for students and for the people who dedicate their lives to educating them. But with school violence on the rise, more and more teachers are facing the impossible: protecting themselves and their students during an active shooting.

We want all teachers, students and faculty members to be as protected as possible.

While schools continue to debate long-term safety strategies, one solution is already available—and it's time we talk about it.

I grew up doing active shooter drills in school, that is something that you carry with you the rest of your life.

The Reality: Violence in Schools Is Increasing

Since 1970, there have been 1,968 school shooting incidents in the U.S., with a sharp rise after 2015. These attacks have resulted in 203 deaths and 453 injuries. And teachers are often right in the middle of it. We don't see the world getting safer, that's why we've created Civilian.

It's protection for those who've never asked to be on the front lines, but could work in high risk environments.

In the Robb Elementary tragedy, multiple teachers were killed protecting their students. This is the reality that we're living in, and we have to do something about it.

Most schools don’t allow firearms on campus. That leaves teachers unarmed, vulnerable, and often without any protective gear. It’s no surprise some educators have taken matters into their own hands—buying bulletproof vests out of pocket just to feel safe in their own classrooms.

Beyond the physical risk, the psychological toll is real. Anxiety is growing. Many teachers admit to scanning classrooms for escape routes or mentally preparing for what they’d do “if something happened.”

Schools and education is the cornerstone on which this country is built. If they are not safe- that begs the question: What can we do about it?

A couple reasons to consider body armor for our classrooms:

1. Concealable Protection

Today’s body armor is not bulky or intimidating. Products like covert vests made with UHMWPE (ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene) can stop rounds from handguns—the weapon used in the majority of school shootings—and can be worn discreetly under everyday clothing.

2. There's more options out there

Protection can be built into backpacks, whiteboards, doors, & glass which double as shields. These tools don’t just protect—they can help teachers lead during lockdowns or medical emergencies.

3. Peace of Mind

Knowing they have some form of protection can help teachers focus on teaching, not survival. It also improves their ability to act fast—whether it’s barricading a door or shielding students.

What About the Critics?

Some worry about cost. But many schools already receive state or federal safety grants, and several companies offer educator discounts or donation programs.

Others argue that gear isn’t enough. And they’re right—bulletproof clothing is not a full solution. But it’s a powerful tool when used alongside lockdown protocols, drills, and security staff.

A Real-World Example: School Shields in Action

Premier Body Armor launched a pilot program combining bulletproof panels and bleed kits into classroom gear. Staff reported feeling more confident and prepared in case of an emergency.

Can schools provide bulletproof clothing to teachers?

Final Thought

We don’t ask firefighters to run into flames without gear.We shouldn’t ask teachers to face bullets without protection.

Providing bulletproof clothing is a practical, affordable, and compassionate step schools can take today. Not as a replacement for broader reforms—but as part of a real solution.

What Schools Can Do Now:

• Start with discreet protection: Use discreet and lightweight bulletproof vests concealed by high quality

• Train your staff: Show them how to use their gear in real scenarios.

• Use the data: Rising incidents justify the investment.

  
  

In this era of unimaginable threats, protecting teachers is no longer optional. It’s essential.

These are not easy conversations or topics to talk about, but that doesn't mean that we shouldn't talk about them.

The world in and of itself doesn't seem to be getting safer and safer, therefore everyone has to take their own safety into their own hands.

For questions, comments or concerns- as always please reach out to us at hello@civilianco.com.