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On Nov. 30, more than 39 squad cars responded to Bradley Tech High School. Police arrested nearly 20 students and seized a rifle and a fake handgun, according to Ald. Bob Donovan.

On Dec. 1, 29 squads were assigned to patrol near the school, and on Dec. 2, 14 squads patrolled outside the school. The problem stemmed from a fight between two rival gangs.

Several weeks ago, Flamond Hightower, a paraprofessional at Phillis Wheatley Elementary School, mistakenly sent a district wide e-mail expressing his frustration about students’ misbehavior and lack of respect in his school.

The e-mail was titled: “Our School of Chaos.”

Here’s an excerpt: “About 75% of our 5th - 8th grade students don't listen to anyone, that includes the Administrators. There seems to be no support of any kind. Children are allowed to call the shots (that's what it seems like). I've worked for MPS for almost 20 years now and I've never seen things so bad. All the Fighting, Cursing, Disrespect and Threats toward staff and other students has to/ and needs to stop ASAP.”

Hightower has been put on administrative leave.

I receive e-mails daily from frustrated teachers who say their schools are out of control and they don’t know where to turn.

I have pushed for SEED schools; single-sex schools such as Urban Prep; and Violence Free Zones in every school to instill discipline and respect. The NAACP needs to be vocal on this matter as well. Education needs to be the civil rights issue of the 21st century. Without a high school diploma and some college, it is nearly impossible to compete in a global economy. This message must be stressed.

And parents?!? We need to educate them, too. A mandatory parenting class is an idea.

And for those who can’t make it in regular school, an alternative route must be made available, such as the Job Corp.

Men have a role, too. We have to be role models at these schools. Too often, these young boys fail to see that they have options.

I’m speaking at Lloyd Elementary School Thursday morning to a group of youths about a number of subjects. I can’t just talk about it unless I’m willing to help out. I can’t do it alone, and, let’s face it, MPS needs our help.

Thoughts?