It is clear that school safety requires discussing safety openly. Some schools have assessed their whole student population using questionnaires and have been surprised at the results. Others have had students use maps of the school and color in green for safe areas and yellow for sometimes unsafe and red for unsafe areas, a technique that can be used across all grade levels. Again, many principals have been surprised to find an unsafe hall or lavatory. Treating students with equal respect is expected but, according to students, is rare.
Respect is critical for students and staff.
Students need to be able to share their concerns and express their feelings, both fears of intimidating bullies and the normal stresses of growing up in today's world. Promoting easy access to counselors, school psychologists and other mental health professionals through student discussions and family information should be part of each year's orientation. Too frequently staff, students and families are unaware that schools have or need such services. Extended day programs prevent youth from engaging in risky behaviors and can provide academic and behavioral support to all children. Many of these programs are already available but not well connected to schools.