The Gift of Fear: Survival Signals That Protect Us from Violence

by Gavin de Becker

QUESTIONS FOR YOUR CHILD’S SCHOOL Do you have a policy manual or teacher’s handbook? May I have a copy or review it here? Is the safety of students the first item addressed in the policy or handbook? If not, why not? Is the safety of students addressed at all? Are there policies addressing violence, weapons, drug use, sexual abuse, child-on-child sexual abuse, unauthorized visitors? Are background investigations performed on all staff? What areas are reviewed during these background inquiries? Who gathers the information? Who in administration reviews the information and determines the suitability for employment? What are the criteria for disqualifying an applicant? Does the screening process apply to all employees (teachers, janitors, lunchroom staff, security personnel, part-time employees, etc.)? Is there a nurse on-site at all times while children are present (including before and after school)? What is the nurse’s education or training? Can my child call me at any time? May I visit my child at any time? What is your criteria for when to contact parents? What are the parent notification procedures? What are the student pick-up procedures? How is it determined that someone other than me can pick up my child? How does the school address special situations (custody disputes, child kidnapping concerns, etc.)? Are older children separated from younger children during recess, lunch, restroom breaks, etc.? Are acts of violence or criminality at the school documented? Are stat...