Another school in another state is dealing with the repercussions of violence this week, but this time, not because of a tragedy.

Thursday, December 30, 1999

Another school in another state is dealing with the repercussions of violence this week, but this time, not because of a tragedy.

Five 17-year-olds at Labette High School in Altamont, Kan., will face charges of murder conspiracy, after school officials uncovered their plan to kill their principal and several teachers at the school.

The idea itself sounds a lot like something from a Hollywood movie. And, surprise, surprise, there was such a movie, "Teaching Mrs. Tingle," released this year.

Of course, it probably would take more than a movie to motivate most teens to come up with the brilliant plan to kill their teachers and principal, but even so, the thought should make us pause.

Teenagers have too much access to messages that preach violence, hatred and a desire for revenge. There is too much sex and violence on television and in the video games all of these young people seem to be addicted to these days.

Will restricting teens’ access to violent movies, videos and television prevent another tragedy like Littleton, Colo.? No one really knows for sure, but anything is worth a try if it makes even one potential killer work that much harder to come up with an idea.

The Kansas incident should be a reminder to all of us that violence in schools is not an issue that is going away anytime soon, so it is time to try a few more solutions.