Schools are uniquely qualified to play a significant role in preventing violence. In order to assist school officials in choosing the most successful strategies, this guide presents a comprehensive assessment of the 84 most widely used school violence prevention programs in the country. In the introduction, the extent of the problem of school violence (broadly defined to include intimidation and coercion) is examined; key elements of promising programs, as well as components of dubious value or possible harm, are also presented. Section 1, "Identifying Promising Approaches to Violence Prevention," outlines methodology, selection criteria, procedures and evaluation. Section 2, "Evaluation: Does Violence Prevention Work?", emphasizes the necessity of determining program efficacy through consistent evaluation. Section 3, "Developing Effective Strategies," focuses on needs assessment, school policies, and school environments. In section 4, "Assessment of Programs," programs are categorized according to type of curriculum and rated for program quality, developmental appropriateness, ease of administration, teacher training, and program coverage of critical content areas. Programs are assessed against other programs for the same age group; evaluation findings are highlighted, as well as reviewers' recommendations and concerns. Program description, contact information, and costs are provided. Also included are a glossary, resource list, references and an index. (EMK)