As violence in school increases, administrators need to assess school security and take steps to make it effective. School employers must have an understanding of student discipline policies for any security system to work. A security assessment should examine such issues as policies and procedure, school sites, school security staff, and…

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)

Outlines the steps taken in Atlanta's public schools, as a result of the continuing, unsolved murders of over 20 Black youths, to protect children from potential danger, to provide a sense of stability and business-as-usual, and to help children put their fears into perspective.(WD)

School districts across the country are taking measures in the design and renovation of school buildings that will protect students and staff members. Exterior and interior design possibilities are listed. Schools are also advised to have a districtwide crisis intervention plan, a school safety plan, and an annual safety audit. (MLF)

Schools are taking many different steps to prevent violence, among them improving relationships with students and building on the relationship with local law enforcement. A comprehensive strategy should definitely include a good crisis plan. All school personnel should know what the plan says as well as their roles in implementation. One sidebar…