Classroom III

Key #1 Large Schools are not safe- but small schools lack resources and personnel to search and seize

Key #2 Student book bags- it is time for them to disappear from schools

Key #3 Teacher visibility- not seating at our desk (maybe that is why two teachers were shot in the resent school shooting on NBC this morning)

Key #4 Communication- if you know about a threat- put it in writing (triplicate copies and turn in one to the assistant principal(s) and one to the principal) Students have this “code of silence” and are afraid of telling on their comrades. Students have to know that not telling can get them kill anyway! Use of automated phone calling machines are popular in schools. But many of our parents are now using text messaging to communicate with their kids. The SMS feature needs to be added now.

Key #5 Special program/alternative school for disruptive students. This program provides a special classroom at each school for students who are disruptive or who have been involved in violent behavior. A teacher and counselor will be specially trained to work closely with these students to improve their attitude, behavior, and study skills. Special attention will be paid to students with learning problems. If necessary, counseling services may be extended to families of these students.

Key #6 School uniform program. All elementary and middle school students should be required to wear school uniforms unless parents opt out of the program. Each school will select its own uniform. The program will provide assistance to families who cannot afford to buy uniforms.

Key #7 Increased security equipment and personnel. This plan provides metal detectors and hallway surveillance cameras on each middle and high school campus. One new security guard will be hired at each school to help staff the equipment.

Key #8 Conflict resolution program. High school and middle school teachers must be trained in conflict resolution skills, which they will teach in various classes. Each middle and high school will develop a peer mediation program, in which students learn how to settle disputes among students. These peer mediators will also travel to elementary schools and train students in conflict resolution. This could part of our school’s NC Positive Behavior Support program.

Key #9 Parental Involvement- calling all parents using a “calling machine” helps communicate, but nothing beats Parent Night or Open House after-school events. I know the ones we want to see never come but information presented in these events help. Schools need to hold special night classes for parents. The classes will teach effective discipline techniques, how to deal with problem behaviors, and how to help students with school work. There will be classes for parents of students of all ages—from elementary school to high school.

Key #10 Just Do It!