Hamilton County Schools Violence Prevention Project

Hamilton County Schools (HCS) proposes to reduce school violence and disproportionate exclusionary discipline for historically marginalized students by increasing students’ protective factors, providing individualized transition support, and engaging families as change agents. By developing students’ ability to self-regulate, build strong relationships, and make positive choices, the project will reduce student misbehavior, violence, truancy, and exclusionary discipline, improving long term outcomes for youth. Families and community partners are key factors in the success of the project. Approximately 300 students will receive intensive case management and mentoring services during the three year project period. The project addresses challenging behavior, school violence, and inequitable disciplinary practices at multiple levels. At the individual student level, community-based partners and school-based staff will provide a “backpack” of intervention services, wraparound supports, and mentoring to support students transitioning from Washington Alternative Learning Center to their schools of origin. At the family level, district personnel and/or partner organizations will provide training for families to equip them as critical partners in reducing truancy, increasing student engagement, and reducing violent or risky behaviors. Lastly, at the district/community level, the Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) Committee and Equity in Action Committees will provide strategic guidance for violence reduction initiatives and professional development for school based personnel to positively impact student behavior and school climate.