RCSD event focuses on violence prevention and jobs

ROCHESTER, N.Y. (WHEC) — The Rochester School District is continuing its efforts to stop violence in the city. "Each One, Reach One" is an initiative the district is using to supply students with two keys it says will lead students to success.

Those two factors are jobs, and violence prevention, making schools safe. The goal of the campaign is to set students up for a career path, that makes violence, not an option.

"We have seen an increase in concerns in our community whether it’s violence, or the need to support our students and our youth,” said RCSD Human Capital Chief Christopher Miller.

"Breaking The Chains of Violence in Rochester" was the focus of the event, and is an anthem that many, are chanting to.

"It starts a lot with kids, and how we’re mentoring and developing our young folks, and if we do more on the prevention side it’s going to pay dividends down the road. It’s great, the turnout here is a statement that a lot of people care and they care about these kids,” said Monroe County Sheriff Todd Baxter.

The event was held at the Arc Of Jesus Ministries Friday morning. The “Each One, Reach One” campaign will help families and students get a job, go to college, and create awareness and avenues for public safety.

"We really do have to do better and education is that driving force,” RCSD Superintendent Lesli Myers-Small said.

Also in the pews were representatives from the Rochester Police Department, FBI, and other outreach organizations, who said violence is plaguing the city.

"Before they fall into this cycle, oftentimes once they’re in the cycle and introduced to the system it’s too late,” said RPD Interim Chief David Smith.

U.S. Attorney for the Western District of New York Trini Ross also spoke at the event.

"We need to tell them that the power is within them, and they need to use that power when they go to school so they don’t worry about shootings. Part of that respect is that there are consequences for actions and they need to know that.”

St. John Fisher College is playing a role in providing academic success. The college will offer RCSD students the opportunity to participate in its Urban Scholars Program. The college pledged $40,000 per student over the course of four years.