The essay synthesizes three major reports on violence in schools: the 1993 National Education Goals Report, the 1993 Metropolitan Life Survey of the American Teacher, and a national crime victimization survey by the U.S. Department of Justice. The essay shows school violence has reached an untenable level in many communities. Many behaviors being acted out in classrooms are symptomatic of what is occurring in society. Strategies being implemented in many communities to "get tough" on school violence are necessary but insufficient. Efforts that address student developmental needs and problems must be introduced early in the educational experience. Children and youth need to understand they are ultimately responsible for their behavior and actions. Parents must work with school officials to deal with the rage and resentment of many students. Self-destructive behaviors and negative attitudes seen in a growing number of young people reflect the pandemic nature of violence in society. Factors that contribute to school violence are discussed, as well as victims and perpetrators of school violence. 27 notes