Student and Teacher Attitudes Toward a School-Based Firearm Injury Prevention Presentation in Washington State

Abstract

Background

Firearm injuries are the leading cause of death among United States youth. Few evidence-based interventions exist that address this issue. High school health classrooms may be an effective way to inform youth about firearm-related risks.

Methods

During 2024–2025, medical students and physicians delivered 55-min firearm injury prevention presentations in western Washington public high schools. Post-presentation surveys measured knowledge, attitudes, and perceptions, with grade-matched peers serving as a comparison group. Teachers of participating classes were surveyed for feedback.

Results

Of 908 participating students, 755 received the presentation and 153 were used as a comparison group. The presentation group scored significantly higher on knowledge-based questions (6.86/8 vs. 5.98/8, p < 0.01). Students rated firearm violence a major concern (median = 8/10), and both students and teachers supported its inclusion in health curriculum.

Implications for School Health Policy, Practice, and Equity

Findings demonstrate the feasibility of integrating school-based firearm injury prevention education into health curriculum. Such interventions may increase awareness, enhance youth knowledge, and foster safe behaviors.

Conclusions

High school students and teachers acknowledge the significance of firearm injury and find this content acceptable for inclusion in high school health curriculum. Schools represent an effective and equitable yet underused platform for teaching youth about firearm risks.