SCHOOL VIOLENCE

WHEREAS, increased verbal and physical abuse of teachers, paraprofessionals, and other educational workers in the schools is evident; and

WHEREAS, this abuse reduces the effectiveness of teachers and therefore drastically reduces the quality of education in our schools; and

WHEREAS, the incidence of violent attacks, such as rape and assault, perpetrated against teachers, paraprofessionals, students and other educational personnel is increasing at an alarming rate nationwide; and

WHEREAS, it is incumbent upon the governing boards of school districts to provide for the safety and security of their employees and students; and

WHEREAS, quality education for all pupils is a stated goal of the AFT; and

WHEREAS, such education cannot be readily accomplished in an unsafe and fear-ridden environment:

RESOLVED, that the AFT go on record as demanding that all school districts across the country take immediate steps to insure safe conditions for all personnel and students and to provide programs for coping with human and social relations; and

RESOLVED, that the AFT demand increased legal support of disciplinary action against student violence through state and federal legislation.