Without the active support and participation of parents, schools and communities cannot be safe.
Parents have to be part of a school's effort to create an orderly, respectful environment.
Teach standards of right and wrong and demonstrate these standards through example. Discuss with their children the school's discipline policies, reinforcing the belief that school rules support the rights of all students to attend schools with disciplined environments safe from influences of violence and alcohol or substance abuse. Encourage their children to talk about school, their social activities, their interests and problems, and even their walk to and from school. Be involved in their children's school life by reviewing homework, meeting their teachers, and attending school functions such as parent-teacher conferences, PTA meetings, class programs, open houses, plays, concerts, and sporting events. Build a network of other adults with whom they can talk about school safety issues and alcohol and drug use.