When crime, drugs and violence spill over from the streets into the schools, providing a safe learning environment becomes increasingly difficult. More students carry weapons for protection. Gunfights replace fistfights. Many students must travel through gang turf or groups of drug dealers.
Violence becomes an acceptable way to settle conflicts.
When this happens, children cannot learn and teachers cannot teach. Find out how crime threatens schools in your community. Take actions to protect children. Promote nonviolent ways to manage conflicts. Here are some practical s uggestions for young people, parents, school staff, and others in the community .