Defines vandalism, explains several types of vandalism, and examines the monetary and social impact of vandalism. (JM)

In many communities, Halloween has become an excuse for young people to commit acts of violence and vandalism. One New York middle-school principal sent a post-Halloween letter to parents detailing the weaponry confiscated by police and terming the holiday a pointless social exercise. The letter helped parents reassert their limit-setting…

A San Jose high school's campaign to develop student pride in the school and its appearance includes publicity measures, painting garbage cans in school colors, and cafeteria supervision. Results in diminishing acts of vandalism have been encouraging. (MJL)

Measures taken by a Catholic high school decreased both vandalism occurring during school hours and vandalism occurring when the school was unoccupied. Among tactics used were increased monitoring by teachers, greater emphasis on the value of respect for others and for property, and installation of an extensive alarm system. (MJL)

One high school's implementation of policies that alleviated the "symptoms" of chronic smoking and some use of drugs and alcohol on school property, chronic truancy from selected classes, and chronic schedule changes is summarized, and efforts toward a lasting resolution of underlying problems in the areas of curriculum and instruction are…

A Chicago school worked to establish school security without destroying the atmosphere that fosters trust, creativity, and a sense of community. Short-range tactics are listed, and a long-range effort to develop student and community unity and pride in the school is discussed. (MJL)