Prince George’s County leaders launch new ‘Safe Passage Project’

LARGO, Md. (DC News Now) — Prince George’s County leaders are stepping up to help curb challenges amongst the youth with a new approach called the “Safe Passage Project.”

The 2-month pilot project will have two safe passage volunteers in designated areas around several schools in the county to ensure safe arrival for students.

School board and County leaders say the project stemmed from traffic challenges, bullying and school fights, and overall crime involving the youth.

“We must change our focus from “what are they doing” to “what can we do!” The community infrastructure we place around our schools to enhance the overall educational experience for our students determines their safety and how successful educators can be.”, said School Board Member Brandon Jackson, District 6.

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The program will be implemented at 6 schools, Largo High School, Suitland High School, Charles Herbert Flowers High School, Central High School, Bladensburg High School and Andrew Jackson Middle School.

They believe taking a “village” approach will help cultivate an environment of solution-oriented citizenship.

“The safety of our students is extremely important to me. As a new mom, I often think about how I would want my child to be protected. I understand the school system and law enforcement have limitations and we are aiming to assist in any way that we can by calling on the community, the village, to help us in our efforts,” said Council member Krystal Oriadha.

Volunteers will be trained by Violence Interrupters, and they are prohibited from engaging physically with students or community members.

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