A Florida high school is making history. Manatee School of the Arts is the first school in the country to have armed guards carrying long guns.

After last year's deadly school shooting in Parkland, Florida all schools in the state have been required to have guards.

Since Manatee School of the Arts is a charter school, the board can choose the weapon.

Principal Bill Jones says he wants officials guarding the school to carry weapons that can immediately stop any potential intruder.

"You have to ask yourself the question, 'Why would I not equip my guardian with at least the equivalent armament and firepower that someone is very likely to walk in the door with?'"

Both guards are veterans.

One guard has already begun working on campus. The other is expected to join next week after he's finished with training.