CitySLUSD Liaison Highlights 2011 0915

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ordinance should be stepped up and that changing safety practices at San Leandro High School (SLHS) also should be in place. She also stressed that the priority is to keep students safe at all costs. She explained a new model which could be implemented called the Diversion Program, in which violations would be handled in- house with one -on -one discussions with an officer and with parent involvement. A discussion ensued on the Diversion Program and a possible amendment of the truancy ordinance. The Committee requested that City staff work out details with Superintendent Cathey for the Diversion Program and bring back to the Committee a recommendation at its November meeting. NOTE: At this point, the Mayor suggested Item No. 4 be next on the agenda. 4. Discussion Regarding School Safety at San Leandro High School Campus Superintendent Cathey acknowledged the great partnership between SLHS and SLPD and the need for it to continue. Mayor Cassidy asked what the most pressing safety issues at SLHS are. Ms. Cathey stated the need for students to be safe, feel safe, to not to have a weapon, reassess access to SLHS, drug use, and gang activity. Principal Granger also gave examples of current safety issues. Chief Spagnoli added that although these safety issues are a problem nationwide, the City and District need to collaborate to resolve the issues. A discussion ensued regarding safety resolutions, i.e., anonymous tip line, reward system, sporadic locker searches, metal detectors, safety - related sniffing dogs, mandatory student IDs. Chief Spagnoli announced that the District and SLPD have called a Joint Community Forum on September 19 at the SLHS Arts Education Center for students and parents to discuss and identify safety issues at SLHS. 3. Discussion Regarding Forum on Children: San Leandro as a Child Friendly Community Acting Assistant City Manager Diaz announced that the Spring Forum on Children has been scheduled for April 21, 2012. A planning meeting is pending in early October to discuss the Forum's format and needs. She added that a possible Resource Fair consisting of community groups may be a part of the Forum's highlights. 5. Public Comments Mr. Abate of Patch asked what prompted the subject of safety issues at San Leandro High School. Board Member Katz - Lacabe stated that a gun and marijuana were found in a student's backpack earlier that week. 6. Committee Comments Vice Mayor Gregory announced that October 5 is International Walk and Roll to School Day and encouraged everyone to adopt a school, and greet and encourage students. He will be participating at McKinley Elementary School. He inquired why the gate on Cary Drive behind Bancroft Middle School was locked. Superintendent Cathey stated that the gate was locked because walking traffic and use of the basketball courts in the area is an annoyance to neighbors.