NCJ Number
157899
Date Published
1994
Length
17 pages
Annotation
Intended for use by school personnel and student peer leaders, this manual describes a violence prevention campaign called "Words, Not Weapons" based in Massachusetts high schools to discourage students from carrying and using weapons and to promote safe schools and nonviolent behavior.
Abstract
Supported by several State agencies, the campaign was developed after analysis of statewide data and the use of student focus groups to identify problems and potential solutions. The program recognizes that although the main risk factors contributing to violence among youth do not originate in the school, the school must address the issue of violence in a preventive way to avoid becoming a victim of violence itself. The manual lists the components and characteristics of a successful school-based violence prevention program; the types of school programs, services, and policies that promote peace and prevent violence; and the responsibilities of the staff member who serves as the advisor for "Words, Not Weapons." Lists of suggested activities, Massachusetts Prevention Centers, other resources, and 6 violence prevention curricula