Sheriff Troy Berry recently visited Piccowaxen Middle School to meet with its Youth Advisory Council, marking a continued effort to foster dialogue between students and local leaders.
The initiative, launched in partnership with Charles County Public Schools Superintendent Dr. Maria Navarro, aims to provide students with a direct line to discuss their concerns about social, safety, and administrative issues. The session was also attended by Dr. Marvin L. Jones, Chief of School Administration and Leadership, and Lt. Christopher Strafella, Commander of School Resources, ensuring a comprehensive approach to addressing student feedback.
The Youth Advisory Council program initially focused on high school students but recently expanded to include middle schools, recognizing the value of engaging with younger students. This expansion has been pivotal in building connections early and nurturing a collaborative approach to problem-solving. Piccowaxen Middle School is the second middle school to join the initiative, further solidifying its reach.
During the meeting, students had the opportunity to share their perspectives and discuss potential solutions to the challenges they face in school. Sheriff Berry emphasized the importance of maintaining an open line of communication with youth, while school officials underscored the program’s role in shaping a safer, more inclusive environment for students.
The Charles County Sheriff’s Office has expressed a strong commitment to student success through this program. By prioritizing dialogue and partnership, the initiative reflects a shared dedication to understanding and addressing the issues that matter most to students. With its ongoing growth, the Youth Advisory Council is poised to make a lasting impact on both students and the broader community.
