School vandalism seriously disrupts the educational process. Because vandalism is often unwitnessed and occurs after school hours, apprehending perpetrators is difficult. Further, school administrators often do not report vandalism because they fear rising insurance costs and reprisals against their schools. Various researchers have explored vandalism causes and have found that it is necessary to combine increased physical security in schools with training methods and programs to create a more positive school environment. Vandalism prevention programs must be based on sound goals and objectives, and effective programs and procedures must be implemented to reduce vandalism incidents and costs. Measures that have been used to reduce vandalism include physical security systems such as intrusion alarms and surveillance cameras, security personnel, dogs, limiting access to school facilities, and student contracts. Although positive teacher reinforcement and matching curriculum materials to abilities can significantly reduce vandalism, many difficulties inherent in preventing school vandalism remain. 43 references