Creating a safe school requires planning and constant vigilance. It's not just a matter of locking all the doors and windows any more. You have to be aware of electronic threats including stealing confidential data and more. School safety has to be everyone's responsibility. Everybody, from the head of school to the maintenance staff, can be your eyes and ears.
"Tolerance.org is a principal online destination for people interested in dismantling bigotry and creating, in hate's stead, communities that value diversity." School violence has its roots in hate and anger. Promoting diversity in your school defuses hate. Not immediately, but certainly over time.
In my youth the only time you saw a tattoo was when you met a soldier or a sailor. I am not kidding. Now tattoos can be a not so subtle expression of personal hate and prejudice. Be aware. Be alert.
School violence is the wild card in running a private school. You just do not know when it will erupt. Use The American Psychological Association's Web site to teach your staff what to look for.
"WiredSafety provides help, information and education to Internet and mobile device users of all ages. We help victims of cyberabuse ranging from online fraud, cyberstalking and child safety, to hacking and malicious code attacks. We also help parents with issues, such as MySpace and cyberbullying." Ignore electronic bullying at your own peril. Even private school students can bully and be bullied electronically.
