Friday will mark one week since one of the deadliest shootings in U.S. history. 

Twenty-six kids and teachers were shot and killed at Sandy Hook Elementary School in Newtown, Connecticut. 

The tragedy has gained the attention of lawmakers here in the Alleghenies. 

"This is sickening. This is mankind at its worst. What do we do to protect our kids? That seems to be in my mind, the major issue before us," said Senator Joe Scarnati. 

On Wednesday President Barack Obama announced that come 2013 gun control would become a "central issue."

Obama hopes that these changes will prevent mass shootings like Sandy Hook from ever happening again. 

While the president may be convinced gun control is the solution, some disagree. 

"Violence has been a problem in society historically. It's not really about the guns. It's really about how do you manage and control people with violent tendencies," said PA House Speaker, Sam Smith. 

Aside from gun control parents are concerned about child safety at local schools. Many wonder -- is there a way to keep kids safe in the classroom? 

"If it requires to put armed individuals in our schools to protect our kids, then we need to do that. But we need to have significant and quick dialogue on how we move forward," Scarnati said. 

The topic of teachers being able to conceal firearms is also at the center of the debate. Scarnati and Smith said as long as they're licensed and trained - they do not see a problem should it be decided in the future. 

"It may require more dollars. It may cost more dollars, but taxpayers be prepared if it does. We've got to protect these kids, we've got to protect these teachers and step up to the plate. Enough is enough," Scarnati said.