Acts of kindness rarely get the attention that acts of violence do. We want to take this opportunity to encourage parents, to thank those who volunteer their time for the youth of our community, and to invite you to join us in doing everything within our power to make our county a better place for our children. Many organizations in our county are already making significant contributions to our youth, but the need is so great, each of us must do our part. By working together and making that extra effort for the young people in our lives, we can make a real difference in theirs. The answer, sadly, is yes.
Random violence can happen anytime, anywhere.
The good news is that local law enforcement and health agencies have been working for years to promote healthy children and families, and to cool potentially violent situations quickly and efficiently. Violent behavior can be identified as early as the first grade and that is where the preventative programs begin. The County Mental Health Department has counselors in every school to help teachers spot troubled children, and to provide counseling to children who are referred by teachers and parents. Law enforcement agencies also have a visible presence in the schools. With funding from the Three Rivers School District, two Sheriff's deputies are assigned to the district's three high schools to assess safety threats, help school officials control substance abuse, and help students resolve problems with each other.