‘Safety Isn’t Just Physical’: CPS, Community Leaders on Back-to-School Safety in ‘A Safer City’ Conversation

With the second week of classes already under way, WTTW News reporter Joanna Hernandez moderated a live virtual conversation on back-to-school safety for children and youth in Chicago as part of the “A Safer City” initiative.

Hernandez was joined by Jadine Chou, chief of safety and security at Chicago Public Schools; Cristina De La Rosa, executive director of Erie Neighborhood House; and Joshua Coakley, external executive director at Target Area Development Corporation.

Amid the barriers and risk posed during commutes to and from school, Hernandez discussed with panelists CPS’ Safe Passage Program, the impacts of gun violence, aiding Chicago’s newest migrant students, and mental health.

A Voices of Child Health in Chicago report from Lurie Children’s Hospital shows that nearly 48% of Chicago parents say their children have seen or heard news about gun violence, while 27% said that their children have heard gunshots when at home.

Story can be also seen at WTTW.com.