Physically aggressive acts drop; improved searches increase reported possessions
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
CONTACT: Nancy Hester, Assistant Superintendent Support Services, 560-2504
Physically aggressive acts drop; improved searches increase reported possessions
DURHAM—The number of violent acts in Durham Public Schools dropped once again during the 2003-04 school year, while bolstered security measures resulted in higher numbers of overall reported incidents.
Durham Public Schools reported a total of 244 acts in 2003-04, up from 216 in 2002-03. These results are primarily due to a continued increase in the effectiveness of improved security measures and increased reporting.
The number of actual violent acts in Durham Public Schools decreased once again during the 2003-04 school year, down from 21 to 18 (this number was 33 two years ago). These figures are derived from the compilation of assault and robbery offenses. The total number of acts per 1,000 students was the third lowest rate of the Triangle’s six major school systems, at 8.112.
Although violent acts decreased, the total number of offenses involving possession of controlled substances and weapons increased. Durham Public Schools officials attribute this to improved methods for student searches, including new metal detectors at all high schools, and the placement of metal detectors in middle schools, along with the establishment of a canine protocol with law enforcement officials, which doubled the capacity for successful searches.
Highlights of the report include:
? A continued decrease in assault on school personnel, from seven in 2002-03 to five in 2003-04. There were 23 two years ago. This bucks state and national figures, which are both on the rise;
? A decrease by two thirds of assault resulting in serious injury, from three incidents to one. There were seven two years ago;
“While we have much more work to do, we are nonetheless very pleased that acts of physical aggression continue to decline in our school system,” said Superintendent Ann Denlinger. “The remainder of this report is a testament to the highly effective measures that have been put in place by our security team, with the bottom line being safer schools for our students and our employees.”
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For NCDPI report, visit www.ncpublicschools.org
