Safety has contributed to the growth of charter schools. However, charter schools may drain public schools of key resources, leading to a decline in safety in public schools. This study examines whether the opening of charter schools in New York City is associated with decreased safety in public schools. Results indicate very little or no…

A safe environment is a prerequisite for productive learning. Using a unique panel data set of survey responses from New York City middle school students, the article provides insight into the relationship between feelings of safety in the classroom and academic achievement. The survey data include the reported feelings of safety for more than…

This article investigates the link between school climate and student academic progress in New York City Department of Education (NYCDOE) high schools. Using a data set compiled from 2010-2011 NYCDOE school-level aggregated demographic, survey, and progress report achievement data, the authors ran ordinary least squares regressions where they…

Educational disparities are deeply entrenched in U.S. society. Our research focused on a move toward equity and investment in one Midwestern charter school via the implementation of the African American Student Network. Participants were 15 male and 15 female students in Grades 9 to 12 who participated in the network for one semester. Qualitative…

Few studies have investigated school connectedness from the perspectives of the adults working in the school. Using qualitative methods, the present study examined three dimensions of school connectedness in one urban, low-income middle school. Analyses revealed that school personnel cared for students' needs, sometimes at the expense of holding…

Zero tolerance policy was created as a result of the Gun Free Schools Act of 1994. Varied views exist on zero tolerance policy that include its substantive impact, for whom it is intended, and its viability to address the problem of school violence. Parents, politicians, principals, and teachers have stated their views on the issues. However,…

Current research suggests that schools in urban settings are experiencing increased instances of de facto segregation. This article explores the implications for creating democratic structures in schools that are segregated and includes a discussion of the desegregation efforts in Kansas City, Missouri, as a way to illustrate the reality of the…

Teacher, district, and site administrators' perceptions of school violence and violence-prevention programs are examined in 15 school districts in 12 states in the United States. Seven areas of concern are covered including fears, types, costs, severity, and frequency of violence. A model prevention program is suggested. (MMU)

Reviews the history of violence in schools, focusing on types and frequencies of violence and the factors that are related to school-based violence. Presents strategies that teachers and other school staff can use to decrease the likelihood of violence. (SLD)

Pre- and post-tested students sent to an alternative school for carrying weapons in regular school who received anger management training infused into the curriculum. Ethnographic field notes were used to examine staff and student reactions to the intervention. Significant reductions in willingness to fight and improvements in ability to control…