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HomeMy WebLinkAboutExhibit 1y���c,, ��w-". -M.. f'=- .R y,C.• '"',.€ yy �.. , h giving our students the vvo)lti 2 Table of Contents Community Action Plan 3 Purpose 3 Structure and Timeline 3 Working Groups 4 Recommendations 5 Pledge of Commitment and Resolution 5 Moving Forward 6 Recommendation Action Chart 7 In -School Safety Working Group 7 Out -of -School Safety Working Group 10 Youth Services Working Group 14 Community Education and Empowerment Working Group 21 Appendix 25 Exhibits 36 3 Community Action Plan Purpose Over the years, senseless acts of violence have affected our entire nation. The recent tragedy in Newtown, Connecticut, horrified parents across the world, as mindless violence made its way directly into the heart of a place that had long been considered safe space for our children — an elementary school that could have been any elementary school across the country. Fear quickly steered the national conversations towards demands for action. The question, however, rests in determining what types of action will protect all children while also bolstering preventive measures on and off school campuses. In establishing the Joint Roundtable on Youth Safety, Mayor Carlos A. Gimenez and Superintendent Alberto M. Carva[ho have joined community leaders across the County to declare with deliberate action and a unified voice that enough is enough (See Exhibit 1 — Op -Ed Articles). The violence that regularly faces Miami-Dade's youth in their own neighborhoods requires that we, as a united community, each take personal responsibility for protecting our children. The answers do not lie in quick fixes or one - size -fits -all solutions. The recommendations presented in this report aim to ensure that the Miami -Dade County community comes together for the long haul to develop a safe envelope around our schools and other public places where children gather. It establishes first steps that will be taken by community leaders that have chosen to lead by example. It employs an approach that will engage the community as a whole, while also honing in on specific areas of the County that face chronic gun violence. The recommendations propose a holistic, comprehensive approach, inclusive of a continuum of work that will begin immediately. Structure and Timeline The first Joint Roundtable on Youth Safety was held on January 18, 2013, at 2:00 p.m., at the Vizcaya Museum & Gardens Village Garage (See Exhibit 2 — First Roundtable Invitation). At the first Roundtable, Miami -Dade County (MDC) Mayor Carlos A. Gimenez and Miami -Dade County Public Schools (M-DCPS) Superintendent Alberto M. Carvalho brought together mayors and police chiefs from all 34 municipalities to begin discussing the most effective means to safeguard our children. The discussion was guided by the following questions: • What do we currently do to ensure that our children are safe at our schools? At our parks? In our neighborhoods? Are there strategies that we are not currently utilizing that should be explored? Are there policies that hinder these efforts? /v 4 • How do we currently support our most vulnerable youth? How are their needs assessed? How are services delivered? How is success determined? Are there gaps in this process that need to be reviewed? • Are there current initiatives/community-based groups working together to address youth safety? Why and how were they created? How is success determined? Is there duplication of efforts? Can coordination across the County be improved? How can the impact of these efforts be maximized? At this first meeting, all attendees were invited to participate in working groups that would delve into answering the guiding questions and formulating recommendations that would make our schools, parks, and neighborhoods safer (See Exhibit 3 — Working Group Participation Form). Each working group was chaired by at least one representative from MDC and one representative from M-DCPS. The co-chairs reached out to all municipalities and over 100 community organizations to participate in this process. The objective of these working group meetings was to share successful practices, discuss current challenges, and define helpful recommendations for short and long-term solutions. The four working groups each met four times between February 1st and February 26th to develop recommendations to present as part of the comprehensive Community Action Plan at the second Roundtable. The second Joint Roundtable on Youth Safety, held on March 8, 2013, at 3:00 p.m. at Miami Senior High School, - allowed mayors and police chiefs to review the recommendations for short and long-term solutions developed by the working groups and discuss how to best implement them (See Exhibit 4 — Second Roundtable Invitation). Working Groups The working groups were structured in the categories listed below. All participating members were invited to attend all meetings. Additionally, all 16 working group meetings and both roundtables were appropriately noticed. • In -School Youth Safety Working Group, which focused on the following questions: o What do we currently do to ensure that our children are safe at our schools? Are there strategies that we are not currently utilizing that should be explored? If strategies are not being used, what are the reasons and ways to overcome impediments? Are there policies, state or federal laws, or regulations in place that hinder these efforts? • Out -of -School Youth Safety Working Group, which focused on the following questions: o What do we currently do to ensure that our children are safe at our parks? In our neighborhoods? Are there strategies that we are not currently CI 5 utilizing that should be explored? If strategies are not being used, what are the reasons and ways to overcome impediments? Are there policies, state or federal laws, or regulations in place that hinder these efforts? e Youth Services Working Group, which focused on the following questions: o How do we currently support all of the youth in our community? How are their needs assessed? How are services delivered? How is success determined? Are there gaps in this process that need to be reviewed? What prevention strategies are currently in place in your community? • Community Education and Empowerment Working Group, which focused on the following questions: o How can we engage our current initiativeslcommunity-based groups and our residents to work together to address youth safety? Can coordination across the County be improved? How can the impact of these efforts be maximized? How can we share information as effectively as possible? At each of the working group meetings, co-chairs provided all participants with an opportunity to share their ideas. All ideas were then prioritized and ranked by the groups, from which each group completed an action chart to address tangible steps that would need to be taken to implement the proposed recommendations. Recommendations As a result of the collective work of the participants in the aforementioned work groups, recommendations were vetted and ranked. Those that were deemed feasible and determined to have the greatest impact are reflected in the Joint Roundtable on Youth Safety Recommendation Action Chart (Action Chart). The Action Chart will serve as the roadmap to guide the work of the Roundtable and can be found on pages 7 — 35 of this report. Pledge of Commitment and Resolution Working Group members who expressed an interest in participating as stakeholders within this process were asked to sign a Pledge of Commitment (See Exhibit 5) affirming their organization's continued involvement in this vitally important partnership and support for improving youth safety in Miami -Dade County. Although all efforts were made to cast a wide net for participation, it is our intent to keep this an open-ended process. As such, organizations or municipalities that elect to get involved after the initial work has started are welcome to join the effort. Municipalities that took part in the working groups will be asked to put forth a resolution before their governing boards to reaffirm their municipalities' continued involvement and support for improving youth safety. The draft resolution that MDC will present to the /2- 6 Board of County Commissioners for consideration during their first meeting in April 2013 can also be found in Exhibit 6. Moving Forward Safeguarding the youth in our community is a long-term process that must be revisited regularly for comprehensive updates and concrete actions. The long-term success of the Roundtable's efforts to address this important issue will depend on true community -wide buy -in, with each and every resident taking personal responsibility for the safety and well-being of our young people. Efforts to further engage the community will be implemented as noted in the Community Education and Empowerment Working Group's recommendations. Moving forward on implementation steps for the Action Plan will begin immediately. It is our shared belief that the work of the Roundtable is just the first step in a collaborative, Tong -term process that will lead to the improved safety and enhanced quality of life for all of the residents of Miami -Dade County. 7 JOINT ROUNDTABLE ON YOUTH SAFETY RECOMMENDATION ACTION CHART Recommendation Increase Police Presence and Visibility In Schools Lead Stakeholder Additional Participating Stakeholders Miami -Dade Schools Police Department (MDSPD) Targeted Areas for Implementation Agencies as noted in APPENDIX la, Local Law Enforcement, Miami Dade County Public Schools Action Steps for First 6 Months Public, Private and Charter Schools throughout Miami - Dade County Outcomes for 6 Month Benchmarks See APPPENDIX la. 1. MDSPD will facilitate monthly meetings with law enforcement and school administrators to enhance presence and partnerships with school community, which will support better collaboration and cooperation between school administrators and law enforcement. 2. After implementation of strategies, assess effectiveness through data collection. 3. After data assessment, determine feasibility of continued or enhancement of identified strategies. Additional Funding To be determined by each stakeholders commitment 8 Recommendation Lead Stakeholder Additional Participating Stakeholders Targeted Areas for Implementation Action Steps for First 6 Months Outcomes for 6 Month Benchmarks Additional Funding County -wide SciooI Critical Inciclent Department ••• • • -Y.• • . . CharterSchools throughout Miami - 1. Finalize plan and obtaln 2. Share ProceduresWith Local 3. Develop and implemept Mock Exercises. 4. Facilitate Operatlonal - Reviews With Lw EnforcementAgencies At- 5. Train school employees in plen. pinalizediplari:;adonted: .....:...........,.-...:,...... .....: . ••• ,"" • .........—.........,........................ ...,....,.... ...„ ..,,..........„,....•.•::::...: ::.:...:::::,....q.....::::.'...:::......',.:•:::::::.!').:"...;;•.i..,:,....',:'.......:.;:',..1,'.1.:':::::; ...........,..................................... . .. .. ...:. ................... ........ .... ...........,......: .....-....................... ...,'!-:::::',..-:;::?....:1(...:.:.,...;:;:•:--:::....:..y:::;::::..::::::::::::..,.:.:::...:..-.:.- ...............,..........,...;.., . • ...,••.•• .,-..-..... ... . ........ ....,..:.. --. :.::::::::'....'..1'........,..".. ...-: —........,. .......... Tobe determined Limit Access While School Is In Session Miami -Dade County Public Schools (MDCPS) Operations Public, Private and Charter Schools throughout Miami - Dade County 1. Evaluate the needs of each school based on CPTED vulnerability assessments. 2. MDSPD will continue conducting unannounced site visits to determine effectiveness of existing security practices. 3. Identify available technologies for use in the school environment through a pilot program involving identified schools. 4. Establish communication with private and charter schools to share plans and strategies. 1. Identify funding sources to purchase standardized electronic access control system and identification cards for students and staff. 2. Evaluate the effectiveness of the equipment/new technology to determine the feasibility of district wide implementation of additional equipment through research and development of established technologies. Bond and identify grant opportunities 9 Recommendation Develop;:5choo Resource. Officer Trainin Cameras With Live Streaming Capabilities Researchand-Develop;A.; Smart Device Reporting Application CPTED and Threat Assessment Evaluations Lead Stakeholder City of Miam Police ;:' Department Tra.ining`.Center MDPSTI:and':,: Miarjii Dadi College Scho ;:of;Justice''.' MDCPS Capital Task Force Miami -Dad County Crime 1.StopPerS;' MDSPD Additional Participating Stakeholders MDPD Homeland Security Detective Omar Garcia •City of Miami¢Pollce DepartmentTrainin, Center MDPD Homeland Security (Lieutenant Raul Martinez) and Local Law Enforcement with trained practitioners Targeted Areas for Implementation Law Enforcement Officers;participatl n in school;.activities; Public, Private and Charter Schools throughout Miami - Dade County Public, Private and Charter Schools throughout Miami - Dade County Action Steps for First 6 Months :Develop and offertra.ining to all agencies throughout Miami DadeCountyi 1. Meet with Stakeholders to outline parameters. 2. Explore Smart Camera Technology. Implement and provide,;.... accessibility and promote Crime Stoppers application for use by: the general public'. via smart devicessuch.as phone;and, Coordinate with MDPD Homeland Security to prioritize all MDCPS School facilities and schedule surveys. Outcomes for 6 Month Benchmarks 1;:Esteblish quarterly• best practices meeting ;between MDSPD and participating agencie• '2� .Update..:and`?revise:;,;% curriculum -as need.ed._? or recommended �duringbest�,practicesF;:. 1. Obtain mutual Agreement amongst all parties. 2. Proceed towards the implementation of the Identified system. 1.Determine effectiveness ofth :application 2: Identify any. technical '. issues to be addressed,`; 3 `:Identify:areas in :need..: of.im .rovementland;'._; `make:ad ustments:t -:improve. the:.`;'. performance oft {`A ;Conti n ue;p'u b li c =; :.awareness campaign 1. Evaluate completed surveys. 2. Implement recommendations based on available resources. Additional Funding Region XIU:and ': any other `' available funding; sources: To be determined To be determined 10 Recommendation Visibility Truancy Sweeps Lead Stakeholder Mlami Dade:'..' College School of Justice (Dr ;Hector Garcia Miami -Dade Public Schools Police Additional Participating Stakeholders Public,: Private and Charter Schools throughout Miami -Dade CountyM.iami-Dade;; Countyyouth Commissionf Miami -Dade Police Department and Local Law Enforcement Targeted Areas for Implementation `,Public; Private and ::: Charter Schools throughout Miami ;Dade :Count ::. y• Public, Private, and Charter Schools throughout Miami - Dade County. Action Steps for First 6 Months 1; Identify,pa• rtnershps: and'. schedule meetings wlth stakeholders Develop.strategic plan to.;createthe.working: ; coalition of nod pubic schools m Miami Dade County ; See Appendix 1b. Outcomes for 6 Month Benchmarks 1::Recruit non-public; schools stakeholders to. • develop goals and objectives; related to:.:-..t' the synthesis ofthese:', organizations within. the overall.functlonal aspects ofithe wider group: bas. ed on 2,.EStablish:coallti.orito: ;; address safety, concerns', at: schools;, 3. Hold.:quarterly:: meetings todiscuss and: Identlfy,needs germane ',to;these:non;-publici ;. schools ;4_Develop:an;Actlon needs Solidify/strengthen ongoing partnerships for truancy related operations. Additional Funding • To be determined pending operational planning and staffing needs. 11 Communication / Reporting Recommendation „Traffic;Enforcementi Police Presence During Early Release Dates WorkStation.s;At Critical::=: ;Parks Centralized Crime Data Warehouse For All Law Enforcement Lead Stakeholder Miami -Da Pollee:': Department and Local Law Enforcemen Parks Departments, Miami -Dade Public Schools Police, Local Municipalities Miami -Dade Chiefs of Police Association via Miami Gardens PD (Chief Matt Boyd) Additional Participating Stakeholders Miami -Dade Public Schools Police :. Parks, Departmen MDPD Homeland Security Fusion Center State, :Local; an Federal government: partners Miami -Dade Police Department, Local Law Enforcement, Parks agencies Targeted Areas for Implementation 'Area sfrequented, b youth after school hours or during: commute/route Parks and facilities known for Juvenile presence on early release dates Parks and: facilities; known foryouth.::: activities :and/or;:after. school programs, County -wide Action Steps for First 6 Months See Appendix 1b. 1.`Identify. prioritized list of sites for work stations 2. Identify agencies;t h at `, would enjoy. mutual benefit: 2 DraftMemorandum:o Understanding between} participating agencies. 1, Hold meeting amongst stakeholders to outline parameters. 2. Explore options to gather and share data. Outcomes for 6 Month Benchmarks 1 Solidify/strengthen ongoing partnerships for traffic enforcement , .iieducatlonrelated.::::..::. efforts 2 Initiate method for feedb.ackfrom;;;;. ,,,.._.. stakehoidersand, community on o:-;P:ur. efforti,:,:r.:;:: is;: Implement announcement of early release dates to local government and law enforcement agencies. Identify/Launch platform for crime data sharing amongst stakeholders. Additional Funding To be determine -,pending s individua planning>and, staffing r' needs. To be determined based on staffing needs. determined <. based on..' needs and'; costtoparks"i':. Funding will be needed, source to be determined based on available federal funding. 12 Recommendation Menta.l!Health: Training PAL & Community Based Organizations (CBOs) '.Enharicat Relationships, Between: Law Enforcerent a nd .Parks Personnel Police Presence At Parks During Large Events/Gatherings Lead Stakeholder `'Judgea:eifmans? >: Office Nis Habs('Kal a) YMCA (Mr. Brian Sheafer) Parks Departments Additional Participating Stakeholders MDCPS; Police, Parks :- %Department;CBOs, MDCPS; (Ms. Debbie. Montilla)• CBOs, PAL organizations, Park agencies Law. enforcement MDCPS, CBOs :<• Local law enforcement agencies Targeted Areas for Implementation Managers:;and after school program coordinators at parks and facilities knownfor youth activities and/or after school programs, — County -wide Parks and :facilities known for youth activities and/or after . school programs based on priority.;; Parks and facilities known for youth activities and/or large gatherings/event Action Steps for First 6 Months Develop trammg curnculum,for target audience- 1. Identify programs that would benefit from exchange of information_ 2. Establish meetings to share information affecting PAL & CBOs. Identify means of, enhancedcommunication. and ddvanced schedules for meetings .. 1. Continue to Implement special events administrative order (MDC) AO-8-3. 2. Share MDC order with municipalities. Outcomes for 6 Month Benchmarks Implement training .program. 1. Increase communication between organizations in related services to avoid duplication, increase awareness, identify areas for improvement. 2. Strengthen relationships with Law Enforcement. 3. Leverage program resources. Solidify/.strengthen ongoingpartnerships between parks personnel, police:and C.CBOs.during..! sche.duled'::i: meetings/events throughincreasedt ipolice participation Enhanced safety and security at upcoming events. Additional Funding To be. determined; based on:. training needs To be determined based on needs assessment resulting from meetings Costs to be determined based on the event. 13 Physical/ Facility Security Recommendation Enhance, public;::`:;; ;; `awareness of existln crime prevention/:" ;reporting, programs:". Develop Lockdown Procedures at Parks Reserve/Volunteer Park Ranger Program Securrty;for PubLc`? Housing;Near Parks Lead Stakeholder Citizen's Crime: Watch of :Miami -Da Parks Department Parks Department Miami Dade Public Housing and Community Development "" Additional Participating Stakeholders Parks Departmen MIam1-Dade : `: Schools Police; CrlmeStoppers Mlaml-Dade `;' MDCPS Operations. CBOs and municipal parks All park agencies Miami-DadeParks Department local law enforcement agencies Targeted Areas for Implementation 1a priority -Parks and ,' facilities located inhlgh crime areas based on' top zip codes/patrol Znd priority All, other parks;as a:cnme prevention strategy, All parks with recreation centers and CBOs Parks and facilities; known for.youth activities and/or after :schoolprograrns base on priorty"list, which is' based:on'assessment All parks Public housing bordering/near. parks Action Steps for First 6 Months 1. Formulate public.: awareness strategy. for Youth Crfine Watch.:'.. .Concept" Be Brave Hotline 2 Add Signage/Enhance Park Watch Program,To. Include Surrounding Neighborhood; :,. 3 Lncrease;,coordtnation between; Crime. Watch; ;: =`:and Park WatchPrograms:. 1. Establish procedures and protocols for lockdown. 2. Develop training drills. Identify..parks survey based on.priorlt 2 Begin security' ', ..;:-.assessments': Develop policy for program. Establish/,strengthen:: relationship between housing site managers, parksi and: local :la*' enforcement Outcomes for 6 Month Benchmarks Enhance awareness of Cnme"Watch ;B.e Brave and Park Watch to visitors of"par"ks through installation of signs and other..:?. awareness materials campaigns Implement lockdown procedures. Identify;`; cameras/Ilghting; needs based on CPTED recommendations 1. Implement program and begin training. 2. Share results with park agencies. Establish points,.of contact.between. affected entities en: implement Imes of:; communication.;' ': Additional Funding To'"be determine .',based on:' survey"of. needs"; No cost anticipated. Costs related': <to cameras/ Ilghting •funding sourceto; be.::,. .basedo_n Funding needed for training materials / uniforms. No cost anticipated,. 14 Route Safety Recommendation Identify The School Bus Routes/Stops That Are Most Problematic Lead Stakeholder Miami -Dade County Public Schools Transportation Identify.the,MDT Routes;. And -Stops That Are Most . Problematic (Carrying :Juveniles:To And :Frorn:: School) Systems of Care & Re -Entry Increase students' access to school -based behavioral/mental health services and referra Is Miami -Dade County Public Schools {M DCPS) Additional Participating Stakeholders Miami -Dade Schools Police, Local Law Enforcement Miami Dade' Schools Police and local law enforcement' Targeted Areas for Implementation Problematic bus routes to include stops and actual buses. Problematic MDT bus routes to mcludestops and actual buses` All students Action Steps for First 6 Months See Appendix 1b. Outcomes for Additional 6 Month Funding Benchmarks Increase police patrol and address problem areas. No cost anticipated. 1. Maintain qualified and credentialed site -based student services team. 2. CAHSD will provide 2012 Head Start Community Needs information. 3. Comprehensive training for principals, teachers, and school personnel. 4. Establish health and mental health services throughout the school system. Increase police, patrol and address problem areas, and consider additional routes. commute for youth. ?ss Increased services and ratio of counselors to students. To be determined based on .+: recommended actions To be determined based on the number of counselors needed. Lead Stakeholder MDCPS 15 Recommendation Develop pathways to connectresources (stakeholder meetings Develop pathways to connect resources (stakeholder meetings) Supportthe,fa milies:. by providing a family advocate/mentor for all youth. reentering the .:.: communityfrom some formof incarceration Additional Participating Stakeholders See APPENDIX 2. State Attorneys, Office (SAO) ;.: Juvenile Services Department:(JSD);' Department of Juvenlle.Justice DJJ ;`Administrative:: :-,Office::of the _Gou its;:;:: (AOC), Department Families (DCF) and Additional Funding Leverage:; „ ended ?` funding fora month benchmark':: Leverage blended funding Targeted Areas for Implementation At risk.youth; and families:. At -risk youth and families Miami Gardens;: Homestead `.and Liba ty'. i•t . Action Steps for First 6 Months 1. Recruit other service ;providers 2 Cond.uct Universal: Screenin s::::: 3 Look into supplemental, •mental.and healtFi;clinics 4 Agencies should present: their comm.u,.nity services; directlyto principals 5 An individual (not on MDCPS payroll):who takes the responsibility of sending and linking communiity organlzations <:wit f the'sc h o o l,:a n d.th e> .needs::of.students,shoul ;beplaced• insideieach: 1. Gather and review information. 2. Recruit other resource links, l.e., Switchboard, Children's Trust. 1_ ldentifyresources;:. needed.to provide;:; advocacyand mentorship; forfamilies 2 Tap into faith base community `programsfor Outcomes for 6 Month Benchmarks Coordinate monthly resource sharingfnetworkm g meetings for service providers (meetings will;be`.: established between the?;:>: MD.CPS CBOs,andi Develop Directory/ Resource Book. Develop.'; Memorandum.o Understanding (MOU)-for service, delivery 16 Family Engagement Recommendation One Stop education center for youth reentering the community after release from confinement or juvenile justice programs to prevent drop -out Training and;retentiori o a.cadre of effective Juveniledudges:::;;:;: Develop aTraining Center/Professional Development Menu for collaborative participation of organizations/ professionals that provide services to at - risk youth and their families Lead Stakeholder Additional Participating Stakeholders Targeted Areas for Implementation Action Steps for First 6 Months Outcomes for 6 Month Benchmarks Additional Funding MDCPS MDC Juvenile Services Department State Attorney's Office (SAO), Public Defender (PD), Juvenile Services (JSD), Dept. of Juvenile Justice (DJJ), Administrative Office of the Courts (AOC), and Community Based Organizations (CBO's)- DCF, Our Kids, and South Florida Workforce SAO;;ISD pJ. end .CBC. s See APPENDIX 2. Share Your Heart (Victory for Youth), Lesbian Gay Bisexual Transgender (LGBT), Federation of Families, Faith Based Organizations, MDCPS Miami Gardens, Homestead, and Liberty City County -wide 1. Explore the re-entry court pilot One Stop through partnerships with schools, DJJ, and CBO's 2. Establish and transition protocol for all youth entering a correctional facility to assist in motivating youth as they're released from confinement 3. Identify best practice programming for youth reentering the community i.e. Pilot drug court scenarios and re-entry court with judges 4. Develop White Paper detailing the plan. . 1. Reach out to. the,Chlef :Judge to schedulemeeting 2 Begin advocating for the ongoing;training and retention'of effective;' Juvenile' judges:' i Identify organizations- local and national- that are presently providing evidence -based training in the area of children and family engagement. Finalize White Paper. Work with'Chlef ;` Judgeto train.and engage juvenile Judges'">• :::.......... Make list available to the community. Explore funding options No additional funding needed 17 After School & Mentoring Programs Lead Stakeholder M DC Community Information And Outreach Department Additional Participating Stakeholders SeeAPPENDIX 2 MDCJSD, MDCSP, , The Natural: Helper': (The Children's Trust} Urban,.. . :League of Gr,.eate.r.: Miami Switchboard of Miami Targeted Areas for Implementation County -wide Additional Funding No additional:+ funding. needed: Additional funding requirements unknown Recommendation :Identify best practice/. evidence based:_family engagement models that also.include a parent training component Enhance promotion of 211 and the county -wide 311 Keep; parks.. and; schools;';: open after traditional hours to provide services' Action Steps for First 6 Months 1 Research, best: practice/, :;; evidence -based family engagement models 2. Research.bestcpractice, pa........................... 3; Identify;a family;:: : engagement:; model-, appropriate.for; Miami:. Dade;.County We will use- the model: across;;theboard;i between;MDC:the School::.':%: System:; and.the CBosso f:that.oura roach is `r uiiiforin: and consistent when.engaging.families_ 4 Identify a Parent training model; appropr•iatefor:;:. Miami;Da,de County's._ diverse community;`:::<.::< Disseminate information of agencies listed with 211 and 311. - T. Develop a: work group to. come up with a vlable.plan 2. Identify specific parks and.: schools.,based"on.; ; ;` service needs:of:.the: community: Outcomes for 6 Month Benchmarks Assess referrals and outcomes of call -ins. A plan.for implementation'. will be develope 18 Lead Additional Targeted Areas Action Steps for Outcomes for Additional Recommendation Stakeholder Participating for First 6 Months 6 Month Funding Stakeholders Implementation Benchmarks MOU with CBOs to MDCPR/MDCPS Belafonte TacoIcy County -wide 1. Contact Miami -Dade MOU's signed Will be provide various services Center, The Parks & Recreation between MDCPR assessed after Children's Trust, Urban Partnership Drug Free Community Coalition and (MDCPR) and MDCPS regarding current programming and available space for new programming and MDCPS. first six months. Branches Inc., MDCPS South Florida Behavior Network 2. Develop a master list of present programs and space available in school and parks. 3. Develop MOU that will be signed between parks and schools for use of the facilities and enhancement of present programs (MOU approval will be obtained via the Board of County Commissioners). . 4. Gather a master list of CBO Programs county -wide and their needs for space 5. Identify transportation services for children in need. 6. Identify organizations that can provide counseling services at the local parks and schools. 19 Youth Empowerment & Employment Lead Stakeholder MDCPS Targeted Areas for Implementation County -wide youth ern powerment culminating events held simultaneously in every senior high school Recommendation One-Stop;Mentorin Referral System: Creating Community Change: Youth Empowerment Summit Poster:Contest (Prevention Activities. Ongoing) Additional Participating Stakeholders Ali:::mentoring agencies City,Year Take Stock, Empowered.Yout Anti -Defamation League (ADL), Youth Move, MCCJ, Youth Crime Watch (YCW), Safe Schools Cha mber.of Commerce Project Centu Action Steps for First 6 Months 1:.ldentifytargetzip codes/communities 2 identify rnentoring :program in;each.zipcode. 3 Create, a database that; ::captures mentoring seivlces`;F; ;4.Dlsseminate'listto Providers S Expand school -based mentoring tocommunity; -.? mentoring (1 a school to f work, churches ;etc.). Expandworkplace mentoring to include:- mu nicipallties;and 'c;`, entrepreneurial`skills included:,::;:? 7:�'r: Mentoring Resource; Center: MRC;': provides:' database::: Series of trainings for selected middle schools and senior high schools peer leaders. 1 Publicize and promote contests Z Priefing sent to all `schoolsand principals Outcomes for 6 Month Benchmarks 1.:Increase number.: of.: students and mentors enrolle programs 2;.Mentoring'. Resource Center.;: (MRC) will launch,,,;;: IIst;of mentoring 3 Hold Call toi::: Actloni eventat:.the::. beginning ofthe <' schoolyear, Peer Leaders facilitate the development of school -site action plans. Winner identified: and recognized Additional Funding :Additional; funding is; ;: needed:to sustain future,. '.projects Leverage existing community resources Sponsor organizations for prizes MDCPS 20 Recommendation Lea d Stakeholder Additional Participating Stakeholders Targeted Areas for Implementation Action Steps for First 6 Months Outcomes for 6 Month Benchmarks Additional Funding Youth Dialogue (Ongoing)/School Based training : Identif. ;and`enhance':`>`.: Y employment programs:: ;` and initiatives that have a. track record:.of success:.:: to meet the needs of..the'; community by, a dvo cati ng: fo rfu riding support summer job opportunities;Sout Florida Workforce;; Youth Move, ADL, MCCJ, YCW, Safe schools .Children s Trust, Local Businesses Faith Based'.; Organizations Civic' Organizations 1. Partner with MDCPS to provide training to all students like no place for hate, youth crime watch techniques and safe school practices 2. Develop action plan for training. Select & Contact; employmentprograms dnd mrtiatives that'have a track record of success;to meet:i the needs of the' community.,.:: 2 Schedule meetings with business leaders and conduct presentations::? designed to increasers participation; of new;` `businesses forjoti:: placement of motivated: young people `;, Recom mendations':an ;:Youth: Suiveys:_and<''. Assessments:to'drive.; :-. processof addressing the:;': needs: of the community . 4. Identlfywork sites:`'`<? Youth Dialogue (Ongoing)/School Based training Z Establish agreements Funding 2 Secure Job placementan 2.employer. mentoring pal wages MDCPS 1 Solicit large corporations . 2 Applyfor State and:federal: funding 3 Solicit stake.." holders. ,': 4 Collective: Funding. ' Identify and advocate for funding to support summer job opportunities SFW/MDC MDCPS, The Children's Trust, Local Businesses, Faith -based Organizations Homestead, Liberty City, Overtown, Miami Gardens, North Miami Beach, FL City, etc. Identify worksites Secure job placement and employer mentoring paid wages. To be determined 21 Engagement Recommendation Create focus groups with the following groups: a. Youth and Juveniles b. Parents Impacted by Violence c. Teachers d. Residents to share Working Group Recommendations and obtain feedback on best ways to engage others. [LINKED TO In -School's "Create a Coalition of Schools" Recommendation] Promote Youth i 1 ' Empowerment Summits° (LINK.;TO Youth 5ervtces'. "Creating Community;; Recommendation Lead Stakeholder Mlaml-Dade County Libraries Additional • Participating Stakeholders Empower Youth, PTA, Faith -based Community, Urban Partnership Drug Free Coalition, Miami —Dade County Public Schools Targeted Areas for Implementation County -wide Action Steps for First 6 Months 1. Identify library venues to host groups 2. Identify a professional facilitator. 3. Gather feedback from focus groups. 4. Incorporate parents as well as school —age (i.e., 5000 Role Models, Youth Summit Leaders, etc.) and college students in the development of a plan to empower them in their communities. Outcomes for 6 Month Benchmarks Provide action item oriented report based on group's findings. Additional Funding Will be assessed after first six months. Crime Stoppers None at this time. 22 Recommendation Lead Stakeholder Additional Participating Stakeholders Targeted Areas for Implementation Action Steps for First 6 Months Outcomes for 6 Month Benchmarks Additional Funding Provide communication channel between youth and law enforcement. [LINKED TO In -School's " Crime Stopper's Application" Recommendation] Promote Coalition oft: 'Youth :Crlme Watch Park. Watch, and Neighborhood,. Watch [UN,KED;TO.Out-of. School's:"Enhance;.Yout ': C ri.m a :W atchCon ce Recommendation Miaml-Dade County, MDPD, Media partners Parks. Department; MDCPS Law:: Enforcement: County -wide Targeted: in key::.::; • communities based on data Work with CrimeStoppers to develop a marketing campaign to promote application. Work with..Crime..Watch ao :develop a marketing :campaign to suppo outreach efforts::: Launch application marketing campaign. Assess progress.o targeted ' comniunitiies 23 Recommendation Lead Stakeholder Additional Participating Stakeholders Targeted Areas for Implementation Action Steps for First 6 Months Outcomes for 6 Month Benchmarks Additional Funding Education/ Create and identify Miami -Dade Urban Partnership County -wide 1. Develop an extensive Launch a long term None at this Awareness "universal" and "per County Drug Free Coalition media plan where awareness time. Will target audience" messaging using data from focus groups and youth summits. Community Information and Outreach (CIAO) and Miami -Dade County Public messaging, audience, media outlets, reach, duration of campaign, and rates are established and detailed. campaign targeting parents, students and the public sector. assess further after six months. Schools 2. Utilize Building Better Communities and the People's Transportation Plan as marketing models (community meetings and workshops). 3. Use marketing research tools to identify the top media channels, online, outdoors, print, transit. (i.e. advertise in shoppers to reach parent. Target video game &social media sites to reach children. Mall directories for both audiences). 4. Use County Assets to advertise on (i.e. GSA, Vizcaya, Zoo, 3-1-1 etc...). S. Engage recognizable -faces from each targeted community to be spokespersons. 6. Use PSAs in Heat and Marlins game- offered to the County free of charge. 7. Utilize Social and local media. 24 Recommendation Engageip a?long=:term: awareness campaign Lead Stakeholder Miami -Da County Community Information_ and.::. Outreach (CJAO) and Miami D,ade:,.: County Public Schools Additional Participating Stakeholders • Miami-Children's' Initiative, Youth • Commission,:' ^.f' Student Governments, . < Faith -based: community,:Youth Fair ,Pubhx Targeted Areas for Implementation 1.. County -wide, with the possibility to' expand beyond our.: region, 2 Targeted :.communities to pilot 'increased engagement efforts Action Steps for First 6 Months 1. Target;parents„students.:.` and the puI?lic sector through avenues such: related to the.school; district (i.e , The Paren Academy, P.TA/P,TSA, e 2 Create"a campaign month and. associated with;. a color to create awareness. (i e pinkfor breast cancer awareness) 3. Develop; a:.county-wide; "committee tocreate an< �o p e ra t i on a.l; �p la n,;w h e re ".'.communication stablished between ydepartrrients;and school board`(ieSchool '.Board ro.bo.calls)<whichwlll allowi:i '..for:the usa.af:in-school:.:; : media:, channels`:' :; ,:• ...... 4:;Promote.. Poster Contest [LINKED TO Youth::Services .: • Recommendation) :5. Enhance: promotion o Additional Funding Noneat:this, :,: time Will assess after six" months Outcomes for 6 Month Benchmarks 1 Launch student contest to increase reach.and audience and . better market the issue." 2 Assess progress'.' on .engagement `: partnerships: and.. update plans . 25 APPENDIX 1 Recommendations to Increase Police Presence and Visibility for In -School Safety MDSPD will meet with all local agencies to identify gaps in current service and discuss commitments for increased police presence and visibility in schools. MDPD and MDSPD also will continue with the following current practices that are in place: • Directed patrols • Traffic enforcement (ingress & egress) • Opening/closing of the school year • Holiday/vacation dismissals • Classroom Presentations • Education (DARE/PAL) • Programs (mentorships/Shop With a Cop and Bigs in Blue) • Collaborative efforts (when requests are made by MDSPD) • Truancy sweeps. Additionally, departments can enhance their current practices by employing some or all of the following recommended strategies: Strategies Departments Park and Talk : • During available patrol time, with an emphasis on critical times of ingress and egress, officers will respond to schools in their area, where they will park their vehicles in a visible location and engage in conversations with school staff, parents and students. This action will be recorded in the officer's daily activity reports. Aventura Police Bal Harbour Police Biscayne Park Police Florida City Police Homestead Police Key Biscayne Police Miami Beach Police Miami -Dade Police Miami -Dade Public Schools Police North Miami Police Pinecrest Police 26 South Miami Police Sunny Isles Police Surfside Police West Miami Police Conduct Roll Calls at Schools: Aventura Police o During each month, area squads will conduct roll calls outside schools in a visible Bal Harbour Police location. Methodologies for roll call deployments will incorporate statistical data and Biscayne Park Police MDSPD requests. Florida City Police Homestead Police Key Biscayne Police Miami Beach Police Miami -Dade Police Miami -Dade Public Schools Police North Miami Police Pinecrest Police South Miami Police Sunny Isles Police Surfside Police West Miami Police Classroom Presentations: Aventura Police s Officers will respond to schools on scheduled dates throughout the school year to Bal Harbour Police conduct classroom presentations on a variety of topic to include: Career Day, the Great Biscayne Park Police Program, K-9 presentations, and drug awareness. Florida City Police Homestead Police Key Biscayne Police Miami Beach Police Miami -Dade Police Miami -Dade Public Schools Police North Miami Police Pinecrest Police South Miami Police 27 Sunny Isles Police Surfside Police West Miami Police Write Reports: Officers will be directed by area supervisors to complete their reports in highly visible locations at school sites, with an emphasis on times of ingress and egress. Aventura Police Bal Harbour Police Biscayne Park Police Florida City Police Homestead Police Key Biscayne Police Miami Beach Police Miami -Dade Police Miami -Dade Public Schools Police North Miami Police Pinecrest Police South Miami Police Sunny Isles Police Surfside Police West Miami Police Quadrant Patrol: • This strategy identifies schools that are situated within a quadrant, which is comprised of several grids, in an assigned area of patrol. Once identified, deployments of quadrant patrol for area schools will be based on statistical data that encompasses crime trends as well as MDSPD and community requests. This patrol strategy will be recorded in the officers' Daily Activity Reports. Aventura Police Bal Harbour Police Biscayne Park Police Florida City Police Homestead Police Key Biscayne Police Miami Beach Police Miami -Dade Police Miami -Dade Public Schools Police North Miami Police Pinecrest Police South Miami Police Sunny Isles Police 28 Surfside Police West Miami Police Departmental Training: All police agencies can utilize MDCPS facilities during school hours to conduct in-service training for course such as Cardio Pulmonary Resuscitation (CPR), Report Writing and other academic based courses. Aventura Police Bal Harbour Police Biscayne Park Police Florida City Police Homestead Police Key Biscayne Police Miami Beach Police Miami -Dade Police Miami -Dade Public Schools Police North Miami Police Pinecrest Police South Miami Police Sunny Isles Police Surfside Police West Miami Police Departmental Meetings: In coordination with MDCPS local agencies will host community meetings that may include the Citizens Advisory Committee monthly meetings and other town hall meetings at area schools. This effort will increase visibility and presence during night school activities. Aventura Police Bal Harbour Police Biscayne Park Police Florida City Police Homestead Police Key Biscayne Police Miami Beach Police Miami -Dade Police Miami -Dade Public Schools Police North Miami Police Pinecrest Police South Miami Police Sunny Isles Police Surfside Police 29 West Miami Police Adopt -a -School: This initiative will involve a two -prong approach with officers assigned to a community policing role who will work and interact with the kids, through mentorship. The program encourages volunteerism for officers who want to give back to their community by using schools as the focal point. Their presence will increase visibility at schools and build stronger partnerships within the school community. Coordinate with MDSPD to identify targeted schools within each area. Aventura Police Bal Harbour Police Biscayne Park Police Florida City Police Homestead Police I<ey Biscayne Police Miami Beach Police Miami -Dade Police Miami -Dade Public Schools Police North Miami Police Pinecrest Police South Miami Police Sunny Isles Police Surfside Police West Miami Police Use of Police Reserve Officer (PRO) Program: • Provide School Resource Officer Training to PRO's who can be deployed to area schools for greater visibility. This could also be inclusive of the Adopt -a -School recommendation. Aventura Police Bal Harbour Police Biscayne Park Police Florida City Police Homestead Police Key Biscayne Police Miami Beach Police Miami -Dade Police Miami -Dade Public Schools Police North Miami Police Pinecrest Police South Miami Police Sunny Isles Police Surfside Police West Miami Police 30 APPENDIX 1b Recommendations to increase Police Visibility for Out -of -School Safety MDPD and MDSPD will contact local agencies to discuss commitments for increased police visibility for out -of -school safety. MDPD and MDSPD will also continue with, and in some cases add or enhance, the following practices: o Truancy sweeps • Traffic enforcement • Police presence during early release dates o Directed patrols Additionally, departments can enhance their current practices by employing some or all of the following recommended strategies: Strategies Departments Truancy Sweeps: o Identify partnerships with law enforcement and community through commitments to participate in this initiative. These partnerships will include local law enforcement agencies and community groups. e MDSPD will coordinate monthly truancy sweeps and notify all participating agencies. o Commit to participate in high visibility monthly truancy sweeps with MDSPD County -wide. • Commit to conduct sweeps on dates likely to have high truancy (Le. national skip day). a Commit to encouraging regular truancy enforcement. • Work with community groups to encourage reporting of truants (i.e. Crime Watch) Aventura Police Bal Harbour Police Biscayne Park Police Cutler Bay Policing Unit Florida City Police Homestead Police Key Biscayne Police Miami Beach Police Miami -Dade Police Miami -Dade Public Schools Police Miami Lakes Policing Unit North Miami Police Palmetto Bay Policing Unit Pinecrest Police South Miami Police Sunny Isles Police Surfside Police 31 West Miami Police Traffic Enforcement: • Identify partnerships with law enforcement and community. Coordinate logistics for traffic enforcement/education details. • Commit to conduct high visibility traffic enforcement details in areas frequented by youth after school hours or during commute/route 3 times a week. • Traffic details may include enforcement and/or education initiatives such as speed zone enforcement and seat belt violations. • Feedback and assessment of success will be measured through communication with stakeholders such as park managers, schools administrators, and community meetings such as Crime Watch. Aventura Police Bal Harbour Police Biscayne Park Police Cutler Bay Policing Unit Florida City Police Homestead Police Key Biscayne Police Miami Beach Police Miami -Dade Police Miami -Dade Public Schools Police Miami Lakes Policing Unit North Miami Police Palmetto Bay Policing Unit Pinecrest Police South Miami Police Sunny Isles Police Surfside Police West Miami Police Police Presence During Early Release Dates: • Commit to provide enhanced visibility by way of directed patrols on early release dates (as provided by School Board). • MDPD Homeland Security Fusion Center to provide advance notice of dates via email notification to all stakeholders. • Feedback and assessment of success will be measured through communication with stakeholders such as park managers, schools administrators, and community meetings such as Crime Watch. Aventura Police Bal Harbour Police Biscayne Park Police Cutler Bay Policing Unit Florida City Police Homestead Police Key Biscayne Police Miami Beach Police Miami -Dade Police Miami -Dade Public Schools Police Miami Lakes Policing Unit North Miami Police 32 Palmetto Bay Policing Unit Pinecrest Police South Miami Police Sunny isles Police Surfside Police West Miami PoliceAll Local Parks Agencies / CBOs. Route Safety: Aventura Police 6 Identify problem routes/stops by surveying bus drivers. Bal Harbour Police o Commit to provide enhance police visibility by way of directed patrols at Miami -Dade Transit Biscayne Park Police and Miami -Dade Schools bus stops/routes identified as problematic or having rowdy students. Cutler Bay Policing Unit o MDT and Schools Transportation to provide lists of problematic stops/routes as they are Florida City Police identified and re -assess regularly. Homestead Police Key Biscayne Police Miami Beach Police Miami -Dade Police Miami -Dade Public Schools Police Miami Lakes Policing Unit North Miami Police Palmetto Bay Policing Unit Pinecrest Police South Miami Police Sunny Isles Police Surfside Police West Miami PoliceMiami-Dade Schools Transportation Miami -Dade Transit 33 APPENDIX 2 Systems of Care/Community Collaboration Contact List ,, Grace Carricaute `a Foundation r y 3 a,,-.1 ,,, T .... .c... : �aia Via. Ganley Foundation t v Cantait iiforn atinn it N ?+; a;..a,. 4,�'. r',.:t .. grace@gankleyfoundation.org� Dr. McGrath Homeless Youth Program 305.825.0300 Denys Figueroa Homeless Youth Program 305.825.0300 Habsi Kaba AOC HKaba@judll.flcourts.org Adeiada Kochen ICFH akochen@ichinc.org Alvao Domenech ICFH adomenech@icfhinc.org Constance Collins Lotus House Directorlotushouseshelter.org Nicole Attong SFBHN nattong@sfbhn.org Niurka Rolo Citrus Health Network niurka@citrushealth.org Frank Manning DJJ Frank.manning@djj.state.fl.us Doubcas Hughes Mimami Coacilation dhughes@miamicoalition.org Lori Laing Chrysalis Helath Ilaing@chrysalisheiath.com Jeanette Garcia JSD Jac0076@miamidade.gov Angelica Myanez MDCPS/S. Service amyanez@dadeschools.net Ava Goldman MDCPS agoldman@dadeschools.net 34 APPENDIX 3 Engagement of Parks Departments for Out -of -School Recommendations Strategies Parks Departments and Organizations Signing On Work Stations at Critical Parks: Miami -Dade Parks, Recreation, and Open Spaces Department (PROS) City of North Miami City of Miami Springs City of Doral YMCA Optimist Club of Kendall Hammocks • Identify prioritized list of sites for work stations- parks and facilities with youth activities and/or after school programs. • Identify potential agencies that would enjoy mutual benefit. • Draft memorandum of understanding between participating agencies- State, Local and Federal Government partners. Police Athletic League (PAL) and Community Based Organizations (CBOs): PROS City of North Miami City of Miami Springs City of Doral YMCA Optimist Club of Kendall Hammocks • Identify programs that would benefit from exchange of information. • Establish meetings to share information affecting PAL & CBOs. • Increase communications between organizations in related services to avoid duplication, increase awareness, identify areas for improvement. Partnership between Law Enforcement (LE) and parks personnel / enhanced relationships: PROS City of North Miami Beach City of North Miami City of Miami Springs City of Doral YMCA Optimist Club of Kendall Hammocks o Identify means of enhanced communication and advanced schedules for meetings. • Solidify/strengthen ongoing partnerships between parks personnel, police and CBOs during scheduled meetings/events. 35 Police Presence at Parks During Large Events / Gatherings: PROS City of North Miami Beach (currently in place) City of North Miami City of Miami Springs City of Doral YMCA Optimist Club of Kendall Hammocks m Develop/enhance communications between Park Departments and Law Enforcement for advanced notification of large events or gatherings in parks. Parks Departments to share policies, procedures, legislation for large events. Develop Lockdown Procedures at Parks: PROS City of North Miami Beach (currently in place) City of North Miami City of Miami Springs City of Doral • Establishment of procedures and protocols for lockdown at all parks with recreation centers and CBO youth facilities. Crime Prevention Through Environmental Design (CPTED): PROS City of North Miami Beach City of North Miami City of Miami Springs City of Doral YMCA Optimist Club of Kendall Hammocks o Identify parks for survey based on priority. CPTED is a multi -disciplinary approach to deterring criminal behavior through environmental design. CPTED's goal is to prevent crime by designing a physical environment that positively influences human behavior. O Begin security assessments. • Identify cameras/lighting needs based on CPTED recommendations. Reserve / Volunteer Park Ranger Program: PROS City of North Miami City of Miami Springs City of Doral YMCA Optimist Club of Kendall Hammocks ® Develop policy for program. o Phase in beginning with parks and facilities with youth activities and/or after school programs. • Expand to additional Parks as reserve and volunteer rangers are added to the program. 36 Exhibit 1 Op -Ed Articles • 37 Miiiiamillerath Posted on Sun, Dec. 23, 2012 Protecting our children from gun violence BY ALBERTO CARVALHO AND CARLOS GIMENEZ Superintendent'sOffice(c�dadeschools.net NISSA BENJAMIN ! MIAMI HERALD STAFF Our country is at a crossroads, one where we must stop and refocus on what is important. Last week twenty beautiful little angels and six dedicated educators were taken in a senseless random act of violence in Newtown, Conn. Since then our nation has struggled for answers as to how such a tragedy could happen. This tragedy has touched every American, every parent, every child in a manner that is difficult to describe. In terms of the safety and preparedness of our schools, Miami -Dade County Public Schools is prepared for any emergency; however, a random act of violence is not predictable, particularly when perpetrated by an unstable individual. As a result, constant vigilance and preparedness are key to the security of our schools. M-DCPS is fortunate to have its own full -service police department, one of few in the state, and a full complement of security monitors at every school. Even though every school has a site -specific emergency plan, all security protocols are being reviewed, including municipal first responder collaboration. Currently, the Schools Police Department has mutual aid agreements with all 37 local and state law enforcement agencies which service our community, ensuring that maximum resources are available in the event of any emergency. The safety of our children is a concern and a responsibility which extends beyond just the school system. It extends beyond our courageous men and women of law enforcement; it is a shared responsibility. That is why as superintendent of schools and Miami -Dade County mayor we are committed to coming to the table to evaluate how we, along with the county and other municipalities, can work together to create an envelope of safety around our schools. Therefore in the coming weeks we will be inviting ail of the chiefs of our community's police agencies to review current safety protocols and develop recommendations for improvements. Similarly, we are working to bring together mental healthcare professionals and those who provide social support services to identify opportunities for early interventions for at -risk and troubled youth. These meetings will then be followed up by a convening of mayors and other elected officials so that we may collectively identify resources and assets necessary to protect our schools and provide support to our youth. It is our intent that this work will yield specific recommendations and agreements which will 38 be announced by February. M-DCPS will also be providing planned critical safety and security infrastructure upgrades at schools in the immediate future as a result of the funds made available by the passage of the $1.2 billion bond referendum this past November. Examples of planned improvements include: perimeter fencing and campus access control, fire and security alarm replacement and upgrades, public address system replacement and upgrades, additional surveillance cameras, and emergency lighting system upgrades. Those who continue to advocate the dilution of capital outlay funds, particularly into non-public entities, must consider the implications on the safety conditions at our publicly owned school facilities. We can and we will continue to fortify our schools and improve our safety and security protocols because the lives of our students and staff remain a paramount priority. Our nation has seen far too many tragedies like Newtown. Each time the horrible tragedy is met with an outpouring of emotion and a subsequent knee-jerk reaction from pundits and politicos, albeit rarely with any long term results. The recurring failure is that the emotional reaction to the heinous act never truly addresses the root cause of the problem. This cannot be the case again. Now is the time to put aside petty differences, partisan politics, and poll results and take a good long look at our policies and legislation, care and services for those with mental or emotional challenges, and our overall culture which regularly inundates youth and adults alike with violence, a disregard for the sanctity of life, and images and video games which glorify criminal lifestyles and the degradation of women. The responsibility for safety of our youth, the security of our schools, the very return of civility to our society does not rest at the feet of any one entity, but is instead a shared duty of us all. It must begin with an honest national conversation about our values and our priorities at the very highest levels of our government, in our houses of worship, in town squares and around our dinner tables. As Americans, as public officials, as fathers, our hearts broke on December 14 when those 20 little angels and six educators lost their lives, just as our hearts ache each and every time one of our own students loses their life as the result of a foolish decision or violent act. Through collaborative partnerships, responsible resource allocation, the availability of mental health and counseling services, and regular emergency response training we must create a safe environment in and around our schools and our students. This is an imperative of the highest order which can no longer be ignored or postponed. There can be no higher priority than the lives of our children. Alberto Carvalho is superintendent of Miami -Dade County Schools. Carlos Gimenez is mayor of Miami -Dade County. © 2012 Miami Herald Media Company. All Rights Reserved. http://www.miamiherald.com 39 Posted on Sun, Jan. 27, 2013 A holistic approach to gun violence in Miami -Dade BY CARLOS GIMENEZ AND ALBERTO CARVALHO miamidade.dov/mayor/ NISSA BENJAMIN / MIAMI HERALD STAFF Elected leaders and law -enforcement officials from across Miami -Dade County convened a Joint Roundtable on Youth Safety last week, assembled in the wake of several recent tragedies involving guns and child victims, both nationally and locally. Among these were the senseless shootings of Miami teenagers Bryan Herrera and Aaron Willis, bright young students guilty of nothing more that riding their bikes when shot without reason or provocation. Our aim is to ensure that this community does everything possible to protect our most precious asset — young people like Bryan and Aaron — not only in theft classrooms but also in their neighborhoods and local parks. These places should be safe havens for our children. Following the heinous acts of a few, we must redouble our efforts to fortify our community's public spaces, because no parent should ever have to second-guess their decision to let their child bike to a friend's house, walk home from school, or play ball at the local park. The first roundtable meeting included a frank exchange of ideas among the participants, with many stating that our overriding focus must be on safeguarding our schools. While school safety remains vital, statistics tell us that our schools are generally safe and that tragedies like the one at Sandy Hook Elementary are the exception, not the rule. In Miami -Dade County's public schools, more than 40 students' lives were cut short by violent acts in the last four and a half years; only one of those was on school grounds. So, while we will continue to improve school safety, we must also take a holistic, community -wide approach to our mission. In the coming weeks, the Youth Safety Roundtable will bring together four distinct working groups to assess what we are doing right to keep our kids safe in and out of the classroom; identify those areas where we are coming up short; and chart a clear path forward. That path must include a common-sense approach to gun control and gun responsibility. The working groups will include diverse local stakeholders: community leaders, educators, law -enforcement officials, mental -health specialists, social -service professionals, and faith -based leaders. The broad perspectives and expertise these parties bring to the table will help us answer the tough questions that recent tragedies have forced all of us to ask ourselves. 40 What are we currently doing to safeguard our children at our schools, at our parks, and in our neighborhoods? How can we improve? Are we giving our most vulnerable youths proper support? And how can we engage the broader community in this effort? The answers to these questions and others will form the guidelines for safeguarding our young for the long term — a working document that we will revisit regularly for comprehensive updates and concrete actions. The Joint Roundtable on Youth Safety will not be truly effective if it only remains a priority for a few months. Our children deserve better from us; we must be vigilant and keep this issue squarely in the forefront for years to come. While the memories of recent tragedies may fade with time, the possibility of future tragedies will not. Ultimately, the success of our efforts to address this community -wide issue will take true community -wide buy in, with each and every resident taking personal responsibility for the safety and well-being of our young people. We all have a stake in this. If we are successful in keeping our children safe, we will be successful in keeping our entire community safe. Miami -Dade Mayor Carlos A. Gimenez and Schools Superintendent Alberto M. Carvalho are co-chairs of the Joint Roundtable on Youth Safety. © 2013 Miami Herald Media Company. All Rights Reserved. http://www.miamiherald.com