Experiences and Perceptions of School Principals Regarding School Safety Programs and Bullying

AbstractMany researchers have documented the continued problem with safety in U.S. schools, which may be related to bullying. Though the most effective way to address bullying in schools is schoolwide programs, limited information is available relating to principals’ views on safety programs in U.S. suburban high schools. Accordingly, this study included two research questions and eight interview questions to address the problem relating to safety programs and interventions with 12 principals in Catholic suburban high schools in Kansas and Missouri. Six distinctive themes emerged from the data based on participant answers to interview questions: effective safety intervention programs, mental health programs, title funding, parent involvement, language and communication strategies, and learned and effective strategies of other administrators relating to school safety. The perceptions and lived experiences of the administrators provided insight into informing existing or new ideas regarding intervention programs that may work effectively to keep students safe in school, which can lead to positive social change. New ideas, strategies, and examples are included in the study by participants who have an accumulation of 175 years of experience. This research is significant for administrators, teachers, students, and the communities who want effective safety programs identified