The warning signs for potential school violence shouldn't be ignored, and the latest incident in California bears that out, says a Kansas University official.
"Even though a lot of people think that this can't happen at their school, they know that people at the other schools didn't think it would happen there, either," said Steven Lee, director of KU's School Psychology program.
Under Lee's direction, a group of KU students is working with area secondary school students and parents to prevent violence. The six graduate students are working with school districts in Lawrence, Kansas City, Kan., Louisburg, Paola, Blue Valley, DeSoto, and Jefferson and Atchison counties.
As part of the project the KU students use a video package of materials produced by MTV and the American Psychological Assn. to offer tips on recognizing warning signs. The students then guide a discussion session about the materials.
In Monday's Santee, Calif., incident the student suspect reportedly talked about a shooting at school, but other students and an adult didn't believe him. Announcing an intention of committing violence is one of the warning signs, the KU students say.
Above all, warning signs shouldn't be ignored, Lee said. "The kids who are contemplating violence have lots of problems that lead to this sort of thing," he said.
Among other warning signs:
Daily loss of temper.
Frequent fighting.
Increased use of drugs or alcohol.
Hurting animals.
Carrying a weapon.
No comments
Commenting is turned off for this story.