How to Safeguard Your School Against Juvenile Crime

Media coverage of crime in schools is at an all-time high, with reports of assault, possession of weapons or drugs, defacement of property, rape and even murder. Often only the most dramatic cases receive attention, but with the prevalence of juvenile crime, you may want to develop a plan to safeguard your school.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Challenging

Things You’ll Need:

• Computer with Internet access
• Community participation
• Safety-assessment checklist

1. Involve parents, students, local law-enforcement officials and community representatives in the creation of a safety-assessment checklist. Ideally, the list should cover every aspect of safety, from personal-security issues to emergency preparedness.
2. Learn the gang symbols in your area and set a school-wide ban on anything gang related. This may include, but is not limited to, clothing, gestures and special insignias.
3. Make sure the faculty is consistent about enforcing school rules. Studies have shown teachers and administrators who frequently back down from an argument are more likely to be assaulted by students.
4. Speak with the school board and law-enforcement officials about the possibility of creating after-school recreational programs to keep teens off the streets when classes are not in session.
5. Work with the school board to develop a special curriculum designed to inform students about the dangers of crime and gang activity.
6. Stay abreast of the latest news about juvenile crime by organizing frequent meetings with law enforcement officials.
7. Support or draft legislation that increases penalties for those who sell drugs or weapons near schools.
8. Get more information about how to safeguard your school against juvenile crime at the National Youth Violence Prevention Resource Center Web site (see Resources below), or by calling toll free at (866) SAFEYOUTH.

Tips & Warnings

• When dealing with a perpetrator of juvenile violence, remember to safeguard the individual's right to due process.
• Juvenile violence can have a marked effect on students. They may become fearful or anxious when attending school. If your school has become a target for juvenile violence, provide competent therapists who can address the emotions of your students.