Explains why the architectural design of school facilities is the first step in the process of making safer schools. School areas examined include the front entrance design; the design of corridors, stairwells, and restrooms; and building placement. Other safety considerations discussed include lighting and other visibility enhancements, and the…

Discusses the decision process for replacement or renovation of aging school bleachers. Topics address building code adherence, bleacher safety inspection, bleacher repair tips, and floor-traction power retrofitting. (GR)

Argues that schools can and should play a critical role in stemming youth violence and describes the Resolving Conflict Creatively Program, a program that schools can use in creating safe, caring communities of learning for children. It shows how the ability to manage emotions, resolve conflict, and interrupt biases are skills that can be taught…

Provides an introduction to the research base for violence prevention as well as an introduction to comprehensive school-based planning for violence prevention. Addresses the role of the school counselor in facilitating such a planning process, particularly the role of collaborative consultant to initiate this process in the community. (Contains…

Many principals have recently acquired school resource officers, police officers who are stationed in schools and report to local sheriffs or police chiefs. Working effectively with a resource officer requires that principals and officers understand each other's role and express partnership details in a memorandum of understanding. (MLH)

Explores the new philosophy, lighting arrangements, and planning considerations behind the next generation of school common area design. Designs that enhance safety and security, and that can be flexible for other school functions are also discussed. (GR)

Offers ways of including special needs students in the science classroom. Discusses inclusion as the law, what a science teacher can do, and safety in inclusive classrooms. (ASK)

Discusses a model for the interactions between the elements of a safe school environment. Elements are curriculum, climate, and instruction leading to a safe setting, resulting in positive student outcomes. (JPB)

Outlines 40 promising, low-cost strategies administrators can implement to make their campus safer. Success depends on establishing clear behavior standards, providing adequate adult supervision, enforcing rules fairly and consistently, cultivating parental and community support, and controlling campus access. A sidebar describes how to conduct a…

Proponents of school uniforms claim many beneficial advantages: improved academic performance, student safety, discipline, and school morale. Opponents say uniform policies violate the First Amendment and will not dramatically improve student performance. School leaders must juggle two conflicting ideals of justice: a student's right to freedom of…

Reports high school students' views on school violence based on interviews with 11 students in a focus group. For example, schools fail to educate students about violence prevention. Offers four recommendations to improve school climate and safety. (Contains 16 references.) (PKP)

Outlines 10 steps that school administrators can take to make their schools safer and more secure for students and staff. These steps encompass crime prevention through environmental design, crisis planning, entrances, lighting, police presence, prevention programs, rapport with students, smaller schools, technology implementation, and staff…

Describes the importance of developing a school violence prevention and crisis response plan, explaining what an effective plan should include; how to establish a school-based team; essential components of a crisis response plan; how to ensure safety via contingency provisions to the crisis response plan; and how to handle the crisis aftermath. A…

Examines the questions to consider when deciding to use consultants in addressing school safety and crisis preparedness. Reasons for exercising caution when selecting security consultants are addressed. (GR)

Discusses ways for middle schools to meet the needs of homosexual students, particularly discussing problems these students face with suicide, substance abuse, sexual activity, family, harassment and violence. Considers counseling and curriculum issues and ways to make schools safe and inviting learning environments. Includes a brief resource list…