Students, alumni and police testify in support of Fresh Start program as committee weighs next steps

Several current and former participants in the Fresh Start program spoke at the Aug. 19 meeting to urge the School District of Beloit to retain the program. Speakers described the program as life-changing and credited it with improving graduation prospects, community engagement and relationships between police and youth.

Marci Thompson, a program alum and former class president, described Fresh Start as hands-on and community-focused, saying the program "changed the trajectory of my life" and helped her graduate and find stable work. Christian Dalton, who identified himself as a captain involved with the program, told the board Fresh Start allowed officers "to get in front of many at-risk youth" and to build bonds that reduced arrests and improved procedural justice. Former students Yadiri Banes and Cortez McAllister recounted support from Fresh Start staff, community partnerships and post-program outcomes including college acceptance and leadership roles.

Board committee reports reflected continuing deliberation. The Business Operations & Finance Committee discussed Fresh Start and determined more input was needed before making a recommendation to the full board; the committee did not forward the program for immediate board approval. At the meeting, Chairman Tom Hankins said the committee would "need some more input before we move forward." Superintendent Doctor Garrison and committee members said they welcomed additional community and internal feedback.

No formal board action to cut or expand Fresh Start was taken at the Aug. 19 meeting; the item remains under review.