Problem Statement

Tagging and other forms of graffiti have become an increasingly prevalent problem in area schools and communities. In addition to being unsightly, graffiti is also divisive and costly to taxpayers. Graffiti removal drains resources from educational and public services. Tagging, especially in schools, contributes to an unsafe learning environment, thus hindering student achievement.

Possible Solutions

• Graffiti wall accessible to students in schools
• Stricter punishments
• Better surveillance
• Random searches
• Anonymous phone line / drop box
• Increased community involvement

Pros	Cons
Give students an outlet	Failed enforcement Labor intensive
A change in culture	Possible student uprising
More safety	Costly
	Not necessarily effective
	Prank calls
	Some students might not have phones

Proposed Policy

Our solution to this problem is multifaceted community involvement, the goals of which are to increase pride and create a culture of ownership in area citizens. This program would involve inviting community visitors, establishing a neighborhood-watch program, developing an incentive program for appropriate conduct, and fostering positive media relations.


Action Plan

Our panel considered a variety of solutions to resolve the issue of tagging at our schools. Some solutions were discounted due to perceived ineffectiveness, such s providing students with a graffiti wall and connecting a student tip line. Other options were excluded due to their cost such as installation of a state-of-the-art surveillance system or random searches of student persons and property.