Parkland students return to school two weeks after shooting

Students and teachers returned to Marjory Douglas Stoneman High School in Parkland, Fla., Wednesday, meeting in class for the first time since a former student armed with an AR-15 rifle opened fire two weeks ago in the school’s freshman building, killing 17 people. The school day began with fourth period, so the students could gather with the teachers and classmates with them at the time of the Valentine’s Day shooting. Administrators told the students not to worry about bringing backpacks because lessons would focus on recovery, not instruction. Counselors stood ready to talk with anyone struggling with the return to campus, and comfort animals stood outside the buildings. So did armed officers, a show of force designed to reassure students they were safe. But not everyone appreciated the police support. David Hogg, 17, a survivor of the Feb. 14 shooting who has become a leading voice in a student-led movement for more gun control, called the heavy police presence “a picture of education in fear in this country.”