During a recent government meeting, officials discussed the impactful Skyla youth leadership academy, which serves students aged 13 to 16 in the St. Cloud district. The program, which includes a week-long retreat at Camp Ripley, has been described as transformative for both students and staff, fostering strong relationships and community engagement. Participants are given nicknames, creating a sense of belonging and connection, as highlighted by one staff member who shared his experiences of being affectionately called \"Grandpa Greg\" by students.

The meeting also addressed the role of School Resource Officers (SROs) in building trust within the community. SROs are actively involved in various initiatives, including the Cop House program, which aims to provide a safe space for students and facilitate positive interactions between law enforcement and youth. Plans for additional Cop Houses are underway, with a focus on mental health support and community resources.

Concerns regarding student well-being were raised, particularly around issues like cyberbullying and substance use. Officials noted that while drug and alcohol incidents within schools are relatively low, social media plays a significant role in influencing student behavior. The importance of creating a safe school environment where students can focus on their education was emphasized.

Funding for programs like Skyla and the Cop House initiatives primarily comes from the city of St. Cloud, with additional support from community partners and grants. The commitment from local authorities to invest in youth programming was praised, highlighting the collaborative efforts to engage families and improve student outcomes.

The meeting concluded with discussions on the need for ongoing community engagement, particularly in rebuilding trust between law enforcement and families. Officials expressed optimism that upcoming projects, such as the community schools initiative, would enhance parental involvement and ultimately lead to better support for students.