This book is written primarily for elementary and secondary school administrators and teachers, but college faculty involved in providing teacher or administrator education would also benefit from the practical approach to issues of school security. Chapters 1 through 3 establish a framework for dealing with the myths and realities of school violence that cloud effective handling of security issues. The first two chapters cover the real threats to school security and the impact of politics on responding to these issues, and chapter 3 offers practical suggestions for dealing with the threats and the politics. The major issues identified are aggressive and violent behavior, drugs, weapons, gangs, and stranger danger. Chapters 4 through 7 explain how to take action, beginning with the security assessment process in chapters 4 and 5. Chapter 6 focuses on popular strategies used to improve school security, including metal detectors, cameras, and security equipment. Chapter 7 looks at security issues as they reflect the community outside the school. It also provides tools to use in working with the media while dealing effectively and proactively with school security issues. (Contains 15 references.) (SLD)