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…

Examines the extent of low-level violence in public schools and its impact on school performance, asserting that the way to reduce such violence is to create a more positive school culture and climate. Guidelines for preventing or minimizing such violence at school are presented. (SM)