This study explores the problem of school violence, identifies the causes and factors associated with this violence, and discusses strategies to reduce violence in the schools. Federal, New York State, and other state initiatives are presented, focusing on reducing violence in schools. Factors associated with school violence and vandalism are identified in the following categories: (1) governance of schools; (2) interpersonal communication; (3) leadership; (4) other school-related factors; (5) society and community-related factors; (6) family-related factors; and (7) behavior. Violence-reduction strategies for schools are discussed in the areas of prevention, intervention, and response. Initiatives undertaken by the Federal Government, New York, and other states to reduce and prevent violence are reviewed. Several surveys planned to elucidate the extent of school violence are described. Appendixes present definitions and a chart of district violence statistics, along with 27 tables of national violence survey results. (Contains 47 references.) (SLD)