Increasing need to deal with violence.

Schools in violence-torn inner cities may need to expand their roles beyond the "three Rs" if they are to succeed in educating children, suggests Antoinette Errante, assistant professor of educational policy and leadership, Ohio State University, Columbus. Studies have shown that some youngsters may have difficulties learning when they are under the stress of continual violence in their communities. Schools could help children--and adults--by thinking about how they could become safer and more secure, caring places.

Some of the strategies could result from stronger school and community partnerships. For instance, educators and community leaders might find creative ways to provide supervised after-school play areas in neighborhoods where violence is an issue and help secure safe routes to and from school. "Many of these activities may appear beyond the school's traditional role. But if the objective is to improve student achievement, we have to make sure students aren't too preoccupied with safety to learn effectively."

One solution...