These problems have as great, and a far more widespread, impact on the learning environment of schools as do the more sensational incidents reported in the press. Thus it is just as important to address these minor offenses. Strategies to reduce school disorder must respond to problems at all levels, rather than focusing on extreme instances. I will begin by summarizing what we know about threats to order in the nation's schools. I will then discuss the link between school disorder and student achievement, the effectiveness of various interventions in reducing school violence, and the policy implications of these research findings.
Serious crimes are extremely uncommon.
Other infractions are even more prevalent. The same NCES study surveyed public school principals in 1997. Many students feel that school is not safe. This pattern is not just limited to a few large cities, but applies to the entire nation. Both serious and minor problems are increasing, as suggested by various studies.