This is an archived article that was published on sltrib.com in 2012, and information in the article may be outdated. It is provided only for personal research purposes and may not be reprinted.

I was surprised that "The simple solution to school shootings" (Opinion, Dec. 19), by Mitch Vilos and Rep. Curt Oda, R-Clearfield, both concealed weapons instructors, is to arm teachers.

The minimum requirement to acquire a concealed weapon permit in Utah is a four-hour class. You are not required to demonstrate proficiency in handling or shooting a handgun in a controlled environment, let alone a crisis situation.

The thought of anybody having a permit to pack a gun without being required to demonstrate proficiency is absurd.

Oda states that for the past three years they have offered to train teachers and school officials for free. Train them to do what? How does that prepare for an actual shooting situation where there is pandemonium, panic and screaming kids?

James Hickok

Midvale