An important point to note when viewing data on this topic is that school shooting rates vary depending on how a "school shooting" is defined. The information in the first graph is based on any shooting occurring on school premises involving individuals who attend or work at the school.

In the second graph, the definition of a school shooting is more specific: it refers to incidents where a student or teacher is shot and either injured or killed during school hours on school property. This does not include situations where guns are used and do not injure others.

What all reputable sources will agree on is this: school shootings are increasing, and the frequency of these incidents in the United States is higher than in any other developed country.