Parents can be the first line of defense

School districts are doing what they can to protect students from violent crimes on school grounds - but some preparation can take place outside the schools.

It's particularly important for parents to maintain open dialogue with their children, said Marcia Sheffels, Flathead County Superintendent of Schools.

Problems may be detected early and crises averted if children feel comfortable talking to their parents. Schools provide counselors, and teachers always are there to speak with students, but Sheffels said communication should begin at home.

"Things need to be discussed," she said.

It's also important for parents to share concerns and ideas with schools, she added.

"Our schools are so open to parent input," she said.

If the unthinkable does occur, parents still have a role to play. A parent herself, Sheffels understands most parents would be tempted to immediately go to the school to get their children. But, she said, that may not be what's best for the students, and it may create more chaos.

"If there is a disaster, one thing we have to be careful about is we have to let school procedures be followed," she said.

Flathead County schools are doing everything they can to prevent a disaster, she said.

"I want our community to know we're doing our very best to have safe schools," she said.

Districts will continue to develop peer groups and conflict-resolution and mentoring programs, Sheffels said. She also encourages getting students involved with their communities beyond the schools.

"The more our youngsters can enter into positive relationships with their communities, the better we can serve them," she said.

Now in her second year as county superintendent, Sheffels said she is impressed with the community's willingness to support the area's schools.

"Teamwork with the community has been important," she said. "I have never called a meeting where people, whether law enforcement or administration, weren't willing to immediately make room in their busy schedules to meet.

"It's comforting to know we're working together."