Bullet Proof Backpacks

It's that time of year when parents rejoice and children live in a state of denial. It's almost time for school to begin again, and that means orientations, registrations, back to school shopping for clothes, snacks, lunches, school supplies, and yes, bullet proof backpacks.

A couple of fathers from Boston decided that they needed to design a shield to protect children from the horrific rash of school shootings that have happened over the last couple of decades. They designed a backpack that is both light weight and bulletproof. While some may argue that it will only protect children from the back, they say that it can be used as a shield to protect them in the classroom.

The problem with these backpacks is twofold. The first glitch is that many school systems require students to store their backpacks in their lockers, only using them to transport books and materials to and from school. The other problem is that the backpacks are quite pricey at $175 a piece. Of course the safety of our children has no price, and for many parents this will be enough incentive to buy the backpacks. However, there are many people who just can't spend that kind of money on one piece of back to school equipment. The irony is that many of the people who can afford this high priced protective gear also can afford to live and/or send their children to schools in districts that have minimal crime.

Another relevant issue is that these backpacks aren't that attractive or trendy. It can be argued by adults and parents that this shouldn't be an issue; that the safety of our children is all that matters. However, as any parent knows, children and teenagers don't have adult perspectives. They want to fit in, not stand out in the crowd. Unless these bullet proof backpacks become ultra hip and trendy, no self-respecting kid is going to want to wear them. Therein lies the dilemma, because if they don't want to wear them they will find a way to avoid it, no matter what their parents "decide."

It's wonderful that these fathers invented such a device to help keep our children safe. Yet like with any product it's a matter of convincing the public it's necessary. Nobody wants to think that anything as awful as a school shooting can happen in their community. The biggest strike against teenagers wanting these backpacks? They all think they're bulletproof, which we adults know is sadly not true, for any of us. Thanks to the fathers who invented the product to look out for kids, but I'm not assured of its success.