Issues

LaJoy believes in implementing comprehensive school safety measures to ensure everyone in our community are safe. This will require a comprehensive approach that includes prioritizing the use of de-escalation, restorative justice practices, safe passage and appropriate accountability measures to fight our epidemic of violence in Ward 8 to make our community safer.

As a parent, LaJoy understands the importance of creating safe environments where our children can learn and grow without fear. This includes the following:

• Safe Passage for Every Student: Every child deserves to feel safe on their journey to and from school. That's why LaJoy is committed to ensuring implementation of safe passage programs across DCPS and DC Charter Schools in Ward 8 that provide designated routes monitored by trained staff and volunteers to ensure the safety of our students and families as they travel to school each day.
  
  

• Community Collaboration: Keeping our schools safe requires collaboration and partnership with our Ward 8 community, government agencies and schools. This will require all of us! That includes collaboration across ANCs, neighborhood and civic associations, law enforcement, violence interrupters, community organizations and schools to develop and maintain safe passage routes and other safety measures that address the specific needs and concerns of our community.
  
  

• Student Support Services: In addition to physical safety measures, it is important to recognize the importance of providing students with the social and emotional support they need to thrive. Supports include: counseling services, mentorship programs, and conflict resolution initiatives to address underlying issues and promote positive school communities.
  
  

• Engaging Parents and Families: Parents and families are critical partners in ensuring the safety of our students and schools. Through active engagement with parents in safety planning and communication efforts, this will help provide families with the information and resources they need to support their children's safety both inside and outside of school.

Safety is a MUST! It is up to every member in the community to assist with the safety of our children, families and schools. Every one of us deserves the right to be safe!