Effect of Authority Figures on Racism in Schools

In September of 1998, it was voted that the control of the New York City public schools security be transferred over to the New York Police Department. This new approach further made students feel separated from those who are in power over them. The fear of racist police officers abusing minorities now became an issue that spilled over from the streets. This new control by the police department divides the students and those in authority over them, making it obviously more difficult for them to feel comfortable going to them for conflict resolution, or just bringing up a concern. The article also states that there is no humongous threat of violent infractions in the New York City public school system. The average number of violent infractions is only 3.1 for every 100 students. One of the solutions to end racial violence among youth, especially in the school system, is to create a more open relationship between those in authority and the students. This will open up the doors for non-violent conflict resolution and the elimination of racial tensions.