Ch. 3 Safety

Post 4: Reflection on Ch. 3 Safety

            While reading Chapter 3 about Safety, it allowed me to reflect on the work I do now

in our schools regarding keeping our students and staff safe from harm each day.  One issue

Hensley discussed was the feelings that most perpetrators possess when they have engaged in

school attacks.  He stated that the students who engage in these negative behaviors often feel

like social outcasts among the other students on campus.  These students have not quite

developed many positive, healthy relationships among their peers.  As a school counselor, I

completely agree with this statement, as it is one of the issues I address when conducting threat

or suicide assessments at Sanger High School.  After gathering my information from the student

and other sources, I determine if the student has a healthy, trusting relationship with at least one

adult.  This particular section of the assessment just proves that establishing and maintaining

social relationships with others is crucial for students to possess the positive feeling of

acceptance.

           

            Another key issued discussed is the need for school leaders to take time for themselves

when they feel overwhelmed.  As with any person no matter what the occupation, we have all

experienced feelings of exhaustion, frustration, and worry.  It is wrong to become upset with

the first person who comes into contact with us when these emotions are very evident within

ourselves.  As administrators, it is critical to allow these negative emotions to wear off which

will then result in a better ability to bring together the staff to continue to reach common goals.

            Finally, a situation that is inevitable in the educational system is the issue of discipline.

Hensley proved a good point by stating that each discipline incident can be used for positive

reflection and learning, rather than not having a discussion with the student and imposing a

consequence immediately.  It is important to discuss with the student the reasoning as to why an

incident occurred, what rule was broken, and to provide an opportunity for a teaching moment

before the consequence is given.  Taking the time to have this discussion with students can

prevent the same incident from happening in the future, once they have a full understanding of

the actions and responsibility.