AREA STUDENTS SURVEYED IN USA WEEKEND ARE AWARE OF VIOLENCE BUT DON'T LET IT RULE THEIR LIVES

How safe are our students? The question has taken on new meaning as tragic school shootings occurred across the country.

Many public schools have done a good job of increasing security. But the shooters were not crazed individuals from the outside. They were students who took their rage and frustrations out on fellow students. Locked doors and name badges won't prevent that kind of enemy from within.

Awareness has been raised about feelings and frustrations. This makes more students and school officials aware of the warning signs of disturbed students. First-time threats take on new meaning as well.

A number of area students recently participated in the USA Weekend survey on school violence. It was published near last week's anniversary of the Columbine High School shooting that left 13 dead.

While area students are acutely aware of the violence, it was good to see most are not overcome by their fears. Perhaps that's because students have learned that zero-tolerance policies are effective against weapons and threats at school.

There are no quick answers to prevent another Columbine. But tough measures coupled with sensitivity and compassion are a good starting place to improve safety in the schools, in the homes and across America.