In my last blog, I examined the alarming statistics on school-based violence and asked whether turning schools into armed camps was the solution. While access to weapons, gang activity, and bullying present real threats that need to be realistically addressed, I am convinced that much of school-based violence and acting-out lies in dysfunctional and alienating school cultures. This blog is abouContinue Reading »

Schools can be tough places for our kids. Middle and high schools, in particular, are susceptible to instability and an ambient student culture of intimidation ranging from casual bullying to bona fide violence. The horrific events at Sandy Hook Elementary School last December put school safety in the headlines, but schools have been struggling with safety issues for many more years.

UnsContinue Reading »

Stop sensationalizing the stories of recent college graduates who can’t find work—or can only find work as baristas or bartenders. A new Pew study shows why “it’s all largely a myth,” writes Jordan Weissmann. (The Atlantic)

To lock or not to lock? Classroom doors, that is. (Los Angeles Times)

Crystal clear. Rick Hess lauds a transparency initiative in Clark County School District,Continue Reading »

What Catherine and Leo said. Seriously, as Alexander Russo points out, recent tragic events notwithstanding, school violence rates are down, and schools are actually among the safer places kids can be. (And while you’re there, check out the Colbert Report clips) Tweet Continue Reading »

Reeling from recent school shootings, Rep. Frank Lasee of Wisconsin introduces a bold new proposal: Give guns to teachers. “To make our schools safe for our students to learn, all options should be on the table,” he said, according to an AP article in today’s USA Today. “Israel and Thailand have well-trained teachers carrying weapons and keeping their children safe from Continue Reading »