Re: STEM conference

At the end of last month’s annual American Association of University Women STEM Conference at Yuba College, we asked the girls who attended what was the most important thing they learned that day. The top five comments were: 1. Women can accomplish anything men can.

2. I learned about specific professions that interest me.

3. Work hard, set goals, take education seriously. 4. I can do whatever I want - dream big. 5. There are many STEM career choices and opportunities (for women).

Over 700 girls from Yuba and Sutter counties’ eighth grades participated. Twenty-five local women who have careers that involve science, technology, engineering or math generously gave of their time and expertise so that our girls could learn about what their future might include.

Yuba Community College provided rooms, technology support, staff and student guides, and a warm welcome to the presenters and the girls.

Over 30 local women participated in organizing and hosting the girls’ sessions. Twenty-three schools provided transportation and substitutes in order that the girls could attend. Scores of teachers and other staff members supported the attendance of the girls. And the Appeal-democrat provided enthusiastic coverage before and after the conference.

On behalf of the girls of our community, thank you all for your support.

Martha Bunce Every classroom should have a reliable communication system and a “panic button” that alerts all classrooms and offices immediately.

Sounds good, but we can do a lot better. Homicidal maniacs (and other mental illnesses) usually appear normal at first, but they often display telltale characteristics if you know what to look for. Intervention and effective treatment can prevent at least some of these tragedies.

All students should be screened informally by teachers in the classroom for antisocial or troublesome behaviors. Most children will quickly pass muster, but the red flags should be addressed by school administrators with the parents, doctors and behavioral professionals. Any findings need to stay in the child’s file that builds and accumulates over the years. This process is found in many elementary and middle schools, it helps.

Not all expelled high school students go on a shooting spree, but if his file shows issues of concern, they cannot be swept under the rug by expelling the kid, especially if his expulsion includes violence or antisocial behavior. Period. Kids need guidance and positive actions, especially the troubled ones. Expulsion orders should include continuing education options and parental control obligations before slamming the door shut.

This is common sense and could be a harbinger of possible liability if administrators do not do their jobs and put their communities in jeopardy.

And I like the 24-hour armed security forces idea too. But will they wear brown shirts and jack boots? I hope so.

Chuck Allen