This Associated Press article about the school shooting in Cleveland this week is almost too heartbreaking to read. However, there are 2 important lessons for us. The shooter, according to the article, was a lifelong victim of neglect, abuse and hideous parenting. His classmates told the principal that he was threatening to shoot people at school and that they believed him (if you know middle schoolers/high schoolers, this is a huge red flag) but the principal was always too busy to meet with them.

We have to teach our kids that if they really believe someone is a threat to them, they have to keep pushing. If the principal won't do anything, they have to go to parents, cops, whoever. And, we have to be more diligent in helping our neighbors who need help parenting, whether by calling youth services or by lending a helping hand. I know it's an unpopular fact, but the truth is that the prisons are full of abused little boys in men's bodies.

Also, you might want to check into what security procedures your kids' schools have put into place. My school has an excellent plan. Nothing is guaranteed, but at least there's a thoughtful plan in place.