School Shooting Prevention Will be Focus of Amundsen Theater Course

In the wake of a 26-victim school shooting tragedy in Newtown, Connecticut on Friday, Amundsen students will analyze a play about school violence and study prevention techniques. 

The analysis is part of a six-week course for sophomores through a program with the American Theater Company.

Students will focus on one scene from Columbinus, a play about the Columbine High School massacre in 1999. They’ll rehearse and perform their scene, making a complete play with more than 800 students from other schools. 

The playwright will lead students in a discussion about the shooting and how to prevent violence in their own schools.

The Amundsen Local School Council unanimously approved funding for the program on Tuesday, totaling $4,380.

The high school has funding for five out of the seven English sections at the school, so needed approval for two classes. After receiving donations from the student council and teachers, the LSC approved the remaining balance. 

Principal Anna Pavichevich said the program was, “curriculum with people that jump out of the book and help teach kids.”

Seven staff members came to the meeting to show support for the program, which teacher Nicole Matassa said always boosts attendance.