School officials, parents, and others must avoid stereotypes and misperceptions fostered by the media and broader society as they relate to gang members. Although gang members are typically portrayed as inner-city minority males, gang membership actually crosses all boundaries of age, sex, race, academic achievement, and economic status. A balanced and rational perspective on gang growth and development recognizes there is no single cause for gang formation and no one strategy to eliminate gangs. Certain identifiers, however, may alert school staff to recognize and investigate suspected gang membership in its early stages. These identifiers include graffiti, colors, tattoos, handsigns and handshakes, initiations, language, and behavior. Schools should design a gang prevention program based on strict enforcement of disciplinary regulations and criminal codes. Schools should also provide services to children who display current involvement or interest in gangs and should use education and training to prevent gangs in schools. In addition, gang prevention strategies should focus on dress standards, student intervention and prevention programs, school security assessments, parental involvement, and community collaboration. 4 notes