We are past the point of debating whether safe schools and violence prevention are priorities for educators. The challenge now is not whether but how to address these issues. While there are a number of excellent programs and tools designed to address the issues of bullying, harassment, media violence, dating violence, and how to foster positive relationships, it is a challenge for educators to match their students needs with the most appropriate program or strategy. Even the best research-based programs available will not be successful unless they respond to a school s identified needs. This book offers a practical and strategic framework for identifying a school s needs with respect to safe schools planning and developing a roadmap for action. It offers specific solutions to common barriers and points of resistance. There is no shortcut to properly assess what a school needs to make it a safe and secure place in which to learn. This book takes readers step by step through a process of assessment, planning, implementation, and achieving sustainability in this critical area."