Cochise County Youth Violence Summit addresses rising aggression among students

The recent government meeting in Cochise County highlighted significant community initiatives aimed at addressing youth violence and enhancing public safety. A key focus was the Youth Violence Summit, led by local educators and law enforcement, including Judge Bannon and Principal Catherine Wright of Joyce Clark Middle School. This summit aims to tackle the rising concerns of violence among youth, particularly issues stemming from social media and substance abuse.

Principal Wright emphasized the importance of community awareness and collaboration in combating these challenges. The school has implemented Positive Behavior Intervention and Supports (PBIS) to encourage positive behavior among students, while also working closely with local law enforcement to ensure a safe environment. The presence of a School Resource Officer (SRO) has been instrumental in fostering trust and communication between students and police.

In addition to addressing youth violence, the meeting also featured discussions on community engagement activities. Lisa Thurber, Principal of Skills Academy, shared insights on the school's efforts to provide special needs students with real-world experiences, such as visits to local businesses and nature outings. These initiatives aim to promote independence and life skills among students.

The meeting concluded with a positive note from Tammy Goldberry, the new director of the Douglas Animal Shelter, who announced a successful transition to a no-kill shelter status, achieving a 93% live outcome rate. Goldberry invited the community to an upcoming open house event, "Smooches and Pooches," aimed at promoting pet adoption and community involvement.

Overall, the discussions from the meeting reflect a strong commitment from Cochise County officials and educators to enhance community safety and support for youth, while also fostering connections between local organizations and residents. As these initiatives unfold, they promise to create a more supportive and secure environment for all community members.