Although the city touts some statistical reduction in crime, that does not mean crime has disappeared. Gun violence and school safety remain serious concerns in the lives of students and parents, especially in high-risk neighborhoods.
Some anti-violence activists have decided to go on the offensive and educate students and parents about conflict resolution and positive skills through various workshops and programs. Schools are changing their entire curriculum and mission to focus on nonviolence and safety as a way to foster safer communities.
Ascend Public Charter School is partnering with local organizations like Single Parent College to take this innovative approach to benefit students both inside and outside of the classroom.
“It's all about promoting inclusive learning environments and directly addressing systemic inequities,” said Ascend Chief Operating Officer Marian Lee.
Single Parent College is funded by a grant from the 67th Precinct Clergy Council and is managed by Director and Operations Manager Guisan Noonan. As a single mother herself, Noonan is passionate about creating space for other single mothers. The idea is to give parents tools that align with their parenting. Workshops are designed to help with stress management, financial management, career building, personal development, and the Positive Parenting series. It's also ACS approved, so if a parent needs a parenting class, they can take the course and get a certificate, she said.
“We recognize that gun violence disproportionately impacts Black and brown communities, and we are committed to educating, empowering, and community-building efforts,” said the Rev. Edward Richard Hines of the 67th Precinct. “We are committed to addressing the root causes of this violence through this initiative.” The President of the Council of Clergy said in a statement. “We believe that by investing in the well-being and resilience of single parents and their children, we can help create a safer environment in which all individuals, regardless of their background, can grow and thrive.”
