Documentary 'Thoughts and Prayers' Explores the $3 Billion School Security Industry

The Rise of School Security Products

• 💡 The documentary "Thoughts and Prayers" examines the industry that has emerged around active shooter preparedness products, now valued at an estimated $3 billion.
• 🎯 Products range from door barricades to shields theoretically capable of stopping AR-15 bullets, pitched at national safety conferences.
• ⚠️ Filmmakers highlight the surprising calm with which these products are demonstrated, despite the extreme scenarios they are designed for.

The Reality of School Lockdown Drills

• 🏫 95% of American schools now conduct lockdown drills, a universal part of childhood due to gun violence.
• 🧒 For younger children, drills can be spooky and confusing, while older students often practice with improvised weapons, reflecting a normalization of potential violence.
• 🧠 The constant mental preparedness for an active shooter event, including assessing exits and potential escape routes, is a significant and universal stressor for students.

Student Perspectives on Drills and Violence

• 💔 Students express frustration and guilt over the necessity of these drills, particularly regarding their future roles as educators.
• ⚠️ Many students report experiencing or being aware of numerous