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Bombs and Bookbags
How Teens are Responding to School Violence By Carma Haley
"Nobody wants to believe things like [Columbine] can happen at their school," says Alec, a 13-year-old from Chesterfield, Va. "No one takes things like bomb threats or rumors of a kid having a gun seriously. Maybe we should, but what teenager wants to think about dying?"
So what can teens do to protect themselves, their fellow students, teachers and friends from acts of violence?
Recent episodes of teen violence in American schools have indicated that various cues and clues were offered before the events occurred. Teens aware of these cues have grown cautious.
"I know I tease people less," says Frank, a 16-year-old from Chapel Hill, N.C. "I heard on the news during the Columbine thing that a couple of guys were killed because they had teased and harassed one of the boys that was doing the shooting. I used to tease people all the time, trying to be cool or tough or whatever. But I don't do it anymore."
Teens understand the need for involvement and early intervention to prevent potential violent acts. This understanding has reduced the number of potential violent acts. "I think more people need to get involved," says Chelsea, an 18-year-old from Chester, Va. "Teachers, parents and other students should take it upon themselves to watch for teens whose behaviors could lead to violence. These kids need help. They need help before it's too late and they either hurt themselves or someone else. I myself have reported two such incidences and helped protect a girl from being stabbed by her ex-boyfriend. She and I are very good friends now."
"I pay attention more," says Marcie, a 14-year-old from Mansfield, Ohio. "If I see someone with a knife or a gun, or even just acting violent by hitting lockers or walls, I tell someone. I don't care if the person thinks I'm a snitch or a tattletale -- I know what could happen if it's all ignored."
Teenagers know that violence is out there. They have become witnesses to what can happen when acts of violence get out of control. As a result, teens are becoming involved, caring, and offering help to those who need it. "I read somewhere that some say it takes an entire village to raise a child," Chelsea says. "Well, the way I see it, the villages are just bigger now, but the children are still there."
