When crime, drugs, and violence are everywhere, it makes it difficult for children and students to grow, learn, and enjoy themselves. We are constantly surrounded by violence, but violence is never a good way to solve a problem. It is important for us, as the children of the community, to help improve schools and the community. We have to do our best to make our city a safe place to live and learn.

There are several things that we can do to improve our schools and lives, here are a few:

• Resolve conflicts peacefully, not with fists or weapons.
• Talk about problems openly. Talk to a parent or teacher--they're there to listen.
• Treat others with respect.
• Report any crimes you see or know about to the police, school authorities or parents.
• Walk away or refuse to fight.
• Be responsible for your own actions--keep the peace by setting a positive example.

Do you have any stories of how you or others have helped the community? Do you have any ideas on how we can help the community become a safer place to live and learn? Fell free to share those ideas with us in our comments section. To see what others have said, click on our "What other's think" link.