- Talk with your kids. Ask if they ever feel afraid,
if they’ve ever heard about gangs or weapons on campus, and what the
school does to prevent bullying. Does the school enforce no-drinking and
no-drugs policies? If they ever heard something alarming (rumors about a
school shooting, dating violence, a predatory teacher) would they know
whom to tell, and do they feel they could safely report it?
- Ask what the school is doing to keep students safe. If
there were an emergency at school, how would you be notified? If a student
seems depressed or aggressive, does the guidance counselor notify his
parents and refer him to professional help? Is there a zero-tolerance
policy about guns and violence in school? Are there metal detectors and
security guards? Does the school partner with local law enforcement or
offer fingerprinting for younger children? Even if you live in a safe
community, safety should be on the agenda at school board meetings and it
should be a top priority for the principal.
- Empower students. Suggest that the principal appoint
student reps to discuss safety at school board meetings, establish an
anonymous tip line so students can report threats and crime without fear
of reprisal, establish a student disciplinary committee, offer classes on
conflict resolution and mediation, and develop mentorship and peer
counseling programs for newcomers and victims of bullying. If she’s
unresponsive, start a parent committee to keep tabs.
- Get involved. Visit the school during lunch, between classes, and after school. Does the campus feel safe? Did anyone check your ID? Were students wearing gang colors or baggy outerwear that could hide a weapon? Get to know your child’s teachers, and tell them you want to hear from them if they have any concerns about your child’s behavior or safety. Make sure the staff has your work and home phone numbers in case of emergency.
By Hannah Boyd
Related
Topics
Bullying and Teasing- Advocating for Your Child at School
- School Safety and Violence
- General Preparedness
- Talking About Tough Issues
- Strong Families: The Cornerstone Of Safe Schools And
Communities
- What Parents Can Do to Keep Kids Safe at School
