Dogs rock, no one comes near my house. And g-d forbid a strange man (hell, even some of my buddies) comes near my daughters, he gets real mad!!!

For the bike, if it was mine and new, I would use a good U-lock on the frame and rear wheel and then either a seperate chain on the front wheel or just take the front wheel with me to class. Don't forget one important thing, since you are locking it in the same placedaily, you do not need to take the lock with you but can leave it locked to the rack.

Best of luck.