Safe Schools, Safe Students:
             A Guide to Violence Prevention Strategies
             Violence in schools affects teachers and students. It is brought into classrooms because it exists in society, in the home, and in entertainment. There are many reasons why violence has come to live in schools across the United States. The American society has changed dramatically in the last 30 years. One of the most negative changes involves the increase in drug use and crime. "Most young people who bring weapons to school do so out of fear. Students are afraid that without a weapon for defense they will be left at the mercy of other students who are "carrying". Crime and violence in schools is found everywhere," Bosch (1997). School districts of all sizes report a general increase in all categories of violent school based behavior. Violence existing in large city schools today is found on a smaller scale in numerous townships. It exists in rural America and is moving into earlier grades each year. Violence has grown more aggressive and damaging. Fights with fists grew to involve knives, bats, and ultimately guns. The problem for schools is that, just like pencils, calculators, and books, if students possess guns and bring them to school, they will be used. When that happens everyone is in danger.
             "The changes that have occurred in American society over the last 3 decades are a far reaching and of great concern. Schools are simply reflections of society. Drug and alcohol abuse, media violence, family stress and transition, poverty, lack of respect, and the education of disruptive students are problems both for society and for schools," Bosch (1997).
             Schools mirror society and the society of the United States is more aggressive than ever. In a Gallup Poll from the early 1990's, teachers stated that the biggest problem facing public schools is parental lack of interest and support. ...