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The Biden administration on Thursday issued an executive order telling federal agencies to improve school-based active shooter drills.

"The majority of schools are currently using drills to prepare for an active shooter situation," the White House announcement said. "Many parents, students, and educators have expressed concerns about the trauma caused by some approaches to these drills."

Research on active shooter drills shows them to be controversial. The drills have been linked to increased depression and other negative psychological symptoms in students. 

A recent Rand Corp. report showed that despite growing concerns and a rising number of gun violence incidents on school grounds in recent years, practice drills are not always helpful for preparedness. Only 20% of teachers said the drills make them feel safer.

The White House confirmed the problems in its announcement: "Many parents, students, and educators have expressed concerns about the trauma caused by some approaches to these drills." 

The order calls for federal agencies to help schools more effectively prepare for active shooter drills while preventing or minimizing potential trauma. It directs U.S. Secretary of Education Miguel Cardona — along with other federal leaders — to publish information on school-based active shooter drills within 110 days, including resources on how to create, communicate about, and conduct effective drills in schools.

National Association of Secondary School Principals CEO Ronn Nozoe called the order "a step in the right direction." Michelle Kefford, principal of Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School, said the guidance will help schools conduct age-appropriate drills. Kefford has been principal of the Parkland, Florida, school since 2019, one year after a mass shooter killed 17 people and injured others there in 2018.

“These critical measures will provide valuable resources and guidance to school leaders," Nozoe said in a statement on the order. 

However, Nozoe also said that Congress should invest in mental health resources and educator professional development to prevent gun violence. "A comprehensive approach is essential to create truly safe and supportive learning environments.”