They and others in the community must teach right and wrong by both instruction and example. Third, the whole community must teach children how to manage their anger effectively and settle differences without violence. Fourth, young people need opportunities for success and for strong, positive relationships with caring adults. Fifth, all adults who work with children need to know how to identify troubled kids early and get them help. Sixth, we must involve our youth.
Youth can mentor, run teen courts, and report concerns anonymously.
Dozens of Columbine youth proved their competence and bravery. We would be wise to tap the skills and heroism among our youth. We should not allow this tragedy to pull us into our shells, fearful of being active members of the community. Prevention doesn't make great TV news fodder, but it does give us safer communities. John A. Calhoun is Executive Director of the National Crime Prevention Council, an organization whose mission is to create safer and more caring communities.