Vi?o?lence (vi'-e-lens)  noun 

1. Physical force exerted for the purpose of violating, damaging, or abusing: crimes of violence.
2. The act or an instance of violent action or behavior.
3. Intensity or severity, as in natural phenomena; untamed force: the violence of a tornado.
4. Abusive or unjust exercise of power.
5. Abuse or injury to meaning, content, or intent: do violence to a text.
6. Vehemence of feeling or expression; fervor.

Woven into the fabric of most of today's societies, violence exists in many forms and at multiple levels. It's affecting our Schools and our youth.  Whether it's physical, verbal, sexual, or psychological and whether inflicted by individuals or groups, violence threatens society in numerous and complex ways. 

We want to know our children are safe and our doubts and concerns are growing each and every day.  Communities, Schools and Families MUST work together in the education and prevention of this ever growing problem.  

Here are some links we have put together to help you address prevention and response:

Resources-

Safe Schools & Violence Prevention Check List - WI PTA

Child Safety - National PTA

Safe Schools - WI DPI

Talking to Your Children about Violence

Helping Children Cope

School Crisis Guide - National Education Association

Practical Information on Crisis Planning - US Dept. of Education

School Safety - National Crime Prevention

National Alliance for Safe Schools

Center for Safe Schools

SafeSchools.net

Programs-

Rachel's Challenge

Power of One

Safe & Sound Campaign

Blueprints Promising Programs