America’s 1st Freedom (A1F) reports that Joseph Nguyen, a hero teacher, who moonlights as a police officer, has been punished for keeping his service firearm in a locked cabinet at the school where he works. A1F explains that:
“California Gun Laws states ‘a person may possess a firearm in a school zone when the person is a duly appointed peace officer, honorably retired police officer, or a security guard authorized to carry a concealed firearm under state law.’ A Level 1 Officer is recognized as a Duly Appointed Peace Officer. Not only has this teacher gone above and beyond in the classroom and risking their life protecting our city, he ran back into a war zone atmosphere on October 1, 2017 and saved many lives during the largest mass shooting in modern U.S history.”
Dan Zimmerman from The Truth About Guns blog also weighed in, writing:
In addition to his teaching gig, Nguyen is a reserve police officer and, as such, allowed to carry a firearm. While the state bans guns within 1000 feet of a school, it was perfectly legal for Nguyen to have a gun through a LEO exemption in the law.
The district, however, takes another view. They prefer to keep their teachers — no matter how well trained, qualified or authorized — disarmed. Only district security officers are allowed to carry firearms on campus. As Nguyen didn’t have permission from school administrators, he’s been suspended.
The noteworthy aspect to this is the reaction of students and parents.
A petition has been started by Ashley Biering to save Nguyen’s teaching career. Despite his good intentions, his training, and his heroic spirit, Nguyen may not win his battle with the school district’s bad policies. When even teachers who are trained and vetted aren’t allowed to protect your children, it’s up to you to prepare them for the worst that could happen. You can also make a difference in how your school prepares. In the end, you are the only arbiter of your own safety. It’s always a good idea to get your gun and your training now.
