Schenectady Community Calls for Action Against School Violence
In response to recent incidents of violence at Schenectady schools, concerned parents, community members, and students came together at Jerry Burrell Park to discuss solutions. Over the past two weeks, Schenectady High School has experienced multiple fights, including one involving a knife. The Schenectady School District has acknowledged these issues and is actively working to improve student safety, with the possibility of implementing metal detectors in schools being considered.
Despite these efforts, many parents feel that more needs to be done to address the root causes of violence in schools. Jamaica Miles, a Schenectady school board member and co-founder of the advocacy group All Of Us, hosted a community discussion to facilitate dialogue and collaboration among concerned individuals. Parents like Aisha, who have children attending Schenectady High School, expressed their frustration and desire for tangible change.
Push for Solutions and Support for Students
During Sunday’s discussion, parents voiced their concerns and called for concrete solutions to ensure the safety and well-being of their children. Takeylyn, a parent of a Schenectady High School student, emphasized the need for proactive measures to prevent incidents like lockdowns and violence. Marquan, a senior at Schenectady High School, highlighted the unsettling trend of escalating issues at the beginning of the school year.
Jamaica Miles echoed the sentiment that students are not the problem, but rather they require more support, training, and understanding from adults within the school community. She emphasized the importance of empathy and guidance for all students, acknowledging that many may be facing challenges that contribute to disruptive behavior. Attendees also discussed the role of school resource officers, with some expressing reservations about increasing police presence in schools.
Advocating for Counseling and Community Engagement
Community organizer Kasey Charles emphasized the need for additional school counselors who can provide a safe space for students to seek support and guidance. By addressing the underlying issues that students may be facing, the prevalence of violence in schools could potentially decrease. While the district has made efforts to increase counseling staff, there is still a recognized need for additional resources to meet the diverse needs of students.
The consensus among participants was that action must be taken promptly to address the current challenges facing Schenectady schools. Jamaica Miles emphasized the importance of collective effort and collaboration in finding effective solutions to promote a safe and supportive learning environment. Former Schenectady schools employee Gherian Foster highlighted the potential for greatness within the youth of the community, emphasizing the importance of investing in their well-being and future success.
As the community continues to grapple with issues of school violence, a school board meeting has been scheduled for Wednesday, September 25, at Schenectady High School. This meeting presents an opportunity for concerned individuals to voice their opinions and engage in discussions about safety and support within the school district. The district has committed to ongoing dialogue and collaboration to address the pressing concerns raised by parents, students, and community members.
In conclusion, the call for action against school violence in Schenectady reflects a collective commitment to creating a safe and nurturing environment for all students. By addressing the root causes of violence, providing adequate support and resources, and fostering community engagement, the Schenectady community aims to ensure the well-being and success of its youth.