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SUPTS. MEMO. NO. 164
November 6, 1998 |
| TO: | Division Superintendents |
| FROM: | Paul D. Stapleton
Superintendent of Public Instruction |
| SUBJECT: | Annual Report for 1996-97: Incidents of Crime, Violence, and Substance Abuse |
Enclosed with this memo is the Annual Report for 1996-97: Incidents of Crime, Violence, and Substance Abuse in Virginia's public schools. You will note that the 1996-97 report, as compared to the previous year, shows decreases in incidents in thirteen categories and increases in incidents in only three categories (see Data Summary). Also included in the Data Summary is a statement to discourage use of this data to make comparisons across school divisions. Given that there are certain limitations in the data collection process (such as the use of various systems of data collection at the division level), this report may reflect discrepancies. Regardless, it has become a widely-used resource throughout the state and the nation. If you have questions regarding this report, please contact Marsha Hubbard, School Safety Specialist at (804) 225-2928. Limited copies of this report are available from the School Safety Resource Center, also at (804) 225-2928. It is also permissible to duplicate copies. PDS/shs Enclosure: A hard copy of this memo and its attach- ment will be sent to the superintendent's office.