As a society we must make much more of an effort to help families, to make sure that there is some responsible adult in the life of every young person. This young man explained that his mother, who runs a salon, is usually not able to be at home after school. But once she gets back around 8 pm or after closing, the whole family sits down together and discusses and works out the problems that were encountered at school that day. This kind of get-together is not always easy to schedule or even to take up. But, let me tell you, it is worth it.
Students also have a role to play.
If they are worried and concerned about a friend or a fellow student who is becoming disconnected and isolated, it is up to them to contact an adult who can help before it is too late. I think many parents and students have already begun to take a closer and more focused look at their children and fellow students. While most of this kind of re-examination will likely be productive, I would also suggest that we employ a certain level of caution. There is a tendency to react too hastily and too fearfully after an incident like that in Colorado. Finally, let me say there will always subjects we don't think our kids are ready to learn about, books they are ready to read, or Internet sites they are ready to visit.