Bill Owens

In the following viewpoint, Bill Owens, the governor of Colorado, contends that youth violence is a growing problem. He argues that society must search for answers in order to understand why events like the Columbine High School shooting occur, and how those tragedies can be prevented. According to Owens, among the reasons for the increase in youth violence is violent movies, a lack of father figures, and schools that let unruly children disrupt the learning process.

As you read, consider the following questions:

1. How many cases of rape were reported at public schools during the 1996–97 school year, according to Owens?
2. Of children who brought guns to schools what percentage were prosecuted, as stated by the author?
3. Why does Owens not favor passing more legislation to end youth violence"

More than two million children under the...