After talking to a few Paint Branch students it seems as though violence is not a major issue. Most say the reasons why students act violent toward one another is because different students dislike each other due to the fact that they act differently, dress differently, or sometimes because they have different sexual preferences. Sophomore Nalaisha Walker feels that violence is a problem because “students don’t choose to cooperate and compromise with each other. Instead they choose to react negatively toward small situations.” Freshman Danielle Washington says the main reason for violence in school is “because some students feel it makes them feel satisfied, even popular to be involved in fighting in school.”

If students were to look at the consequences, they would probably think twice about fighting in school. According to Paint Branch’s policy, any kind of physical attack towards a student or teacher or even any type of intimidation carries the consequences of a suspension of up to ten days, a possible police referral, and the possibility of expulsion.

According to Assistant Principle Renay Johnson, girls’ conflicts at Paint Branch have increased. The girls’ physical altercations always result in suspension. “I believe that they should seek counseling for mediation before they fight. In the world of work and college, if you use violence as a resolution to your problems you will be fired and expelled from college,” says Johnson.





Most students are working on their future and many do not want to negatively impact that future with a petty fight. Sophomore Jasmine Jones says “everyone thinks it will be fun when you get suspended just because you’re out of school, but really it’s no fun since all your friends are at school and you’re the only one home.”

The conclusion comes down to violence in school being a bad choice. So the next time you go to swing that left hook at that innocent victim think twice about the decisions you make when it comes to violence and your future.