School districts across the state can now apply to participate in a new pilot program that aims to better connect students to older Hoosiers in their community.
This opportunity comes after State Rep. Chuck Goodrich (R-Noblesville) authored legislation creating the School Intergenerational Safety Pilot Project fostering positive relationships between students and older Hoosiers to help make schools safer.
Goodrich
“Some struggling students need a positive adult in their lives to give them sense of stability and hope,” Goodrich said. “Unfortunately, there are kids across the state who don’t have an older figure in their lives to turn to when they need help. We have people who are willing to connect with these students and this program will help them do that.”
According to the Indiana Department of Education, the three school districts selected for the program can have up to 16 volunteers who are at least 55 years old who could mentor troubled youth, patrol the school, report any threat to students or staff and provide guidance to teachers.
“This is a proactive step to better ensure Hoosier children are safe at school,” Goodrich said. “If there is a threat of violence, we want to know about it and address it.”
To participate, volunteers must undergo a criminal background and a child protection index check. They must also commit to serving in their role for at least two years.
Goodrich said the Indiana Department of Education will choose a rural, urban and suburban school district to participate in the pilot program. School districts wanting to participate should submit their letters of interest to the Indiana Department of Education by Aug. 15. Schools will then receive an application for the new program, with selections finalized by Aug. 23.
The three school districts selected will be eligible to receive $75,000 to implement the pilot program.
For more information about the application process, visit doe.in.gov and type “School Intergenerational Safety Pilot Project” in the search bar.
State Rep. Chuck Goodrich (R-Noblesville) represents House District 29, which includes portions of Hamilton County.