I wonder if the teacher was just very naive to the ways of the world and did not "believe" the perp would harm the girls? Just a thought.....
I, too, have wondered why a teacher did not stay with the kids. But I think you are probably right, the teachers didn't know what to do. These days, I think everyone should just assume the worst in a situation like this.
In this case I could see your point. However, in basic protection mode as a mother I don't see it. The Amish may be naive but I have not doubt they have the same instincts to protect children as anyone else.
Whether she believed or didn't believe, what was she supposed to do against someone armed with a gun?
The Amish in our area select the smartest female, usually in their later teens, to teach their children. These girls are not prepared in any way to deal with such a situation.
The children are very well schooled, by the way. Their 8th grade is equivalent to our high school, except perhaps in math and science. The level of math they do have is excellent, just not advanced, like calculus...
It is important to understand that Amish communities vary in their strictness and adherence to rules. Some are very strict, and some less so, regarding the use of modern technologies.
For example, they may use certain tools, like automatic nailers, if they are "working out" for us English, as carpenters. But, they may not use these when building for themselves.
We work with them, and they are honest, trusting, and generous people, who go out of their way to be kind to everyone. Unfortunately, they are frequently taken advantage of by the unscrupulous "English". and it is true that some locals are actually hostile toward them, primarily because of their work ethic, I think....