The legislative actions taken by California from 1977 through 1979 are discussed in detail. The purpose behind this legislation is to help prevent and identify criminal and violent behavior in schools. (JN)

A study completed by the fire department of the City of Winnipeg has documented the effectiveness of smoke detectors in reducing fire losses. The entire Winnipeg fire prevention program is described. (MLF)

Flammable liquids are one of the major causes of institutional fires, yet proper care and handling can reduce the danger. (Author)

The wood frame school in San Jose (California) could be built in most jurisdictions and meet building code requirements of the area. (Author/MLF)

Discusses what facilities management leaders can do to ensure the safety of students and employees. Focuses on six specific tasks, such as detecting hazards and assessing the risks, and offers three rules underlying the application of risk management, including do not accept unnecessary risk. Provides an outline of prevention responsibilities.…

The number of school fires is up nationwide. This article describes unsafe school conditions, problems with new fire codes, and the factors that contribute to school fires. Installation of sprinkler systems is recommended. A fire-safety checklist is included. (LMI)

Reports results of a study identifying effective behaviors for preventing technology accidents, and ineffective behaviors that cause technology accidents in the schools. Offers technology use guidelines for principals and for school media specialists to promote the safe use of technology. (SR)

Describes the Safe Schools/Healthy Students (SS/HS) Initiative currently underway in the Tyrone Area School District. The goals of the SS/HS Initiative involve reducing risk and building competencies for students and their families through integration of law enforcement and mental health into school-based prevention efforts. Program evaluation is…

In Salinas, California, a Safe Schools/Healthy Students (SS/HS)-funded program is helping children and their families grapple with issues pertaining to violence, substance abuse, mental health, and academic success. In just two years, the program has helped educators and service providers deter school crime, provide on-campus therapy to troubled…

Although wired glass is extremely common in school buildings, the International Building Code adopted new standards that eliminate the use of traditional wired glass in K-12 schools, daycare centers, and athletic facilities. Wired glass breaks easily, and the wires can cause significant injuries by forming dangerous snags when the glass breaks.…

A high school principal explains her strategy for turning around a disorderly, gang-ridden middle school. Her discipline plan's success hinged on developing schoolwide expectations for behavior, developing positive consequences, compiling a list of unacceptable behaviors, and empowering teachers to administer consequences, including contacting…

Surveyed rural 4th-6th grade students, parents, and teachers regarding the prevalence and correlates of bullying. Results indicated that bullying was prevalent and indicative of aggression and pro-violence attitudes. Students reported higher prevalence of bullying than did parents or teachers. Their reports were associated with aggression,…

According to the Education Commission of the States, 14 states prohibit pagers and/or cell phones in schools, 8 states have repealed bans, and the rest have no statutes on the issue. Ten states, including some that have repealed bans, grant policymaking authority to local boards. Presents arguments pro and con on cell phones and school district…

A decision by the 8th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals in a case from Minnesota illustrates the difficulties schools face in deciding when and how to search a student for possible weapons or drugs. Case shows courts tend to give school officials a measure of flexibility when applying the law. Advises board members and administrators to consult with…