Poster #175 - Protecting School Environment; An Examination of School Violence, School Safety and School Security

• In Event: ASC Poster Session I

Abstract

Incidences of school shootings and violence have raised concerns amongst parents, researchers’ and policy makers about the safety of children in school. Given public uproar and concerns of school safety, schools have adopted varying efforts to strengthen their security practices within the school environment and its borders. Despite efforts to address these issues, students’ safety still remains a major concern. Scholars have examined and evaluated perceptions of safety, both from a student, parent and teachers’ perspective (Soliman et al., 2018; Highberger, Wang & Brittingham, 2022). However, not much attention has been given to the effectiveness of school security practices. This study uses the Delaware School survey to examine violence in schools, perception of safety, and the effectiveness of school security practices among school students. Findings from this study will provide valuable insights for policymakers, educators, and school administrators in designing and implementing evidence-based safety measures that enhance school security and overall well-being in schools.

Author

• Gift Onwuadiamu, University of Delaware