Scared at School?

[Shannon]

Love it or hate it, if you're under 18, you're probably spending most of your time at school. And, aside from that feeling you get right before a big test you haven't studied for, school should not be a place where you feel afraid. But for many kids, that's the reality they face. Whether it's weapons, peer pressure, bullying, or gang activity, for some people, school can be a scary place. But it doesn't have to be. What can be done to make schools feel safer? If you do feel safe at school--what is it about your school that makes it feel that way? How can youth be the ones to start to make a positive change in the atmosphere of schools? We'd love to hear your ideas, join the discussion!

[Amy]

Schools already do bag checks,and some even have metal detectors and security guards. But I think that most of the danger comes from the kids who pressure and buly. Guidence counsulers can help with this, but kids don't always choose to go see them. Sometimes kids just need someone to keep on the right path. I think a mentoring program might be a good idea either between kids and adults or just kids and other kids. When I was in middle school I had a teacher who I knew I could go to if I had any problems, and she helped me through a lot. I think that the best way to make school safe is to be a friend to anyone that needs one.