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.
(1978)