While violent events in schools are still rare occurrences, they are nevertheless extremely traumatic and touch almost every adult or child in some way. As awful as these tragedies have been, we must resist the temptation to turn our schools into fortresses where children are captives to fear. There has been considerable dialogue over the past decade about violence in the schools with the underlying causes still subject to considerable speculation. One thing everyone does agree upon is that there are no quick solutions. School boards across the country have adopted zero tolerance policies on drugs and weapons in schools.
Some campuses now have security officers and metal detectors.
Tougher gun laws have been enacted, as well as sweeping overhauls of juvenile justice systems, allowing juveniles who commit certain violent crimes to be tried as adults. More recently, one school district has adopted a zero tolerance approach to bullying. Law enforcement agencies have increased prevention programs and improved tactics for responding to school shootings. Our community is also blessed to have wonderful organizations such as the Scouts, YMCA, Boys and Girls Clubs, City Impact and many other social, religious and sporting institutions reaching out to young people. Parents often ask me what they can do in response to the threat of violence.