Discussion of school violence and student misbehavior reviews research showing that violent and unsafe student behaviors are the outcome of a predictable chain of events that begins with academic failure. The paper urges a greater emphasis on effective academic instruction in any efforts to prevent school violence and improve school safety.…

James LaVine, a high-school junior, wrote a first-person fantasy about killing 28 people in school and then committing suicide. The district suspended him for 17 days. James and his father filed suit against the school district alleging that the emergency expulsion violated James' First Amendment rights. The District Court ruled for the LaVines…

On May 2, 1983, Coalinga, California was rocked by an earthquake measuring 6.7 on the Richter Scale. Since May, the Coalinga region has endured 8 aftershocks at 5.0 or larger on the Richter Scale, 30 shocks at 4.0 or larger, over 300 shocks at 3.0 or larger, and over 4,000 shocks at 2.0 and larger. From all known data on the faults of the region,…

A decision by the 8th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals in a case from Minnesota illustrates the difficulties schools face in deciding when and how to search a student for possible weapons or drugs. Case shows courts tend to give school officials a measure of flexibility when applying the law. Advises board members and administrators to consult with…

A college's disciplinary proceedings are teaching mechanisms. They take advantage of the rare "teachable moment" in crisis to both respond to an act and carry out the institution's primary mission by influencing the student's understanding of right and wrong, thus creating or strengthening the student's understanding of ethics and values.…

Despite the school shooting on December 1, 1997, under current state law in Kentucky, school officials and administrators are not likely to be held accountable, even for ignoring the most obvious of warning signs. There should no longer be the rule barring liability that is called sovereign immunity. Instead, the court should examine the actions…

Students need to know the difference between snitching to get someone in trouble and disclosing disturbing information to save lives, prevent harm, or right a wrong. Elements in the school culture that would encourage students to confide in adults include trust, adults in close proximity, positive school climate, information hotlines, and…

Explains what security officers do, how to hire and utilize them, and how they can help schools. (JM)

The background and development of the integrated pest management program in the Dade County, Florida, Schools is discussed. The activities of this IPM program are described. (CW)

The efforts of one family to change the pesticide policy of their school district are described. Stressed is the need to educate teachers, physicians, and students. (CW)

The development of an effective Integrated Pest Management program is discussed. Provided are the common goals and procedures involved in adopting an Integrated Pest Management program for schools. (CW)

Campus supervisors can be an integral part of a high school support staff, despite their cost. By carefully selecting good campus supervisors, districts can provide safer, cleaner, and more pleasant learning environments. (TE)

As administrators contemplate installing metal detectors, different legal issues must be considered. Five lessons learned from past litigation are listed to aid administrators in their decision. A sample policy outline concerning weapons and metal detectors is provided. (KDP)

The preparation of a report, slide show, and brochure to promote awareness of the hazards of toxic pest control for school pest management personnel in the San Diego Unified School District is discussed. The future plans of the coalition are proposed. (CW)

A 2-year involvement to change the pesticide policy of the Oak Park, Illinois, schools is described. The new policy is discussed. (CW)