Rosebank school in Balclutha is asking the community to keep an eye out for suspicious behaviour after recent vandalism on school grounds.
Principal Pauline Simpson said some damage had been done to the school's soccer posts over Queen's Birthday weekend.
While the damage was minor, people needed to show more respect for school property.
"We encourage everybody to make good choices . . . and respect the environment we are all part of.''
She wanted it to be a safe place for everyone.
Security cameras at the school had helped identify the children responsible,
Mrs Simpson said. She had spoken to those responsible and they had since "put it right''.
However, she wanted to connect with the community and intervene with those who might make bad choices before the habits progressed into adulthood.
"We'd rather we spoke to you when you were 14 than when you were 18,'' she said.
Everyone in the community benefited from making the right decision.
An increasing number of people had been using the school grounds after dark despite clear rules stating no-one was permitted to do so.
Mrs Simpson said the school encouraged families of the school to use the grounds during the day but there was no need for anyone to be on the site after dark.
The school had a good relationship with police who were always informed of happenings around the school.
The school had not pressed charges against the vandals.
Mrs Simpson said if anyone saw any suspicious behaviour, they should contact a member of the school board of trustees or the police.
