NCJ Number
77604
Date Published
Unknown
Length
37 pages
Annotation
This booklet is part of a two-volume set intended to assist Kentucky school administrators in selecting appropriate programs for the prevention of vandalism and theft through activities that motivate students and the public to respect school property.
Abstract
That such programs are needed is attested to by a 1978 Kentucky survey of the State's school districts which revealed that more than $1.4 million was expended during the 1977-1978 school year because of vandalism and theft. The physical security approaches recommended require making school buildings less vulnerable to vandals and thieves by installing locking devices, better lighting, and strict control over public access to the school facility. Student and community activities include a wide spectrum of programs which involve school administrators, community leaders, the police, and media, in addition to students, teachers, and parents in program planning. Among general measures recommended is a firm and fair discipline in the school, reduction of unnecessary loitering, direct restitution for damages, and public information about the problem schools have in protecting public property. Poster contests, teacher's guides on crime prevention, police visits to schools, competitive school pride programs, student juries, and peer pressure among students are other pursuits to be encouraged. Appendixes contain definitions of offenses, a code of conduct, and suggestions for interviewing a suspected student. Illustrations are provided. For volume two, see NCJ 77603.