IPS holds community conversation on youth violence

INDIANAPOLIS (WISH) – Indianapolis Public Schools is asking for help addressing the issue of youth violence in the community.

IPS Superintendent Dr. Lewis Ferebee, along with church and other leaders held a community conversation on youth violence Thursday afternoon at Northside New Era Church. IPS said it is the first step in a process of engaging the community to help find solutions.

Dr. Ferebee said the district offers after school activities and even transportation home for students who are involved in after school activities, but he and the district are hoping to work with community partners to offer more for students.

“There are a wide range of activities we ant to get our young people engaged in, but most importantly, we want these activities to be constructive, physical activity, be able to socialize with others, build character in our young people,” Dr. Ferebee said.

Some of the community partners at Thursday’s event included Peace Learning Center, Indiana Black Expo, and IMPD’s Gang Unit.