Clayton County Public Schools (CCPS) demonstrated its unwavering commitment to student safety and a violence-free learning environment by hosting the "Back to School Violence Prevention Forum” on Tuesday, September 12, 2023. This crucial event, held at the Clayton County Performing Arts Center, brought together approximately 300 male middle and high school students, school officials, and distinguished panelists to address critical issues affecting the youth.

The initiative was conceived by Mr. Benjamin Straker, Vice Chair of the Clayton County Board of Education and representative of District 9. Mr. Melvin Blocker, Executive Director of Student Discipline, Prevention, and Intervention, in collaboration with Mr. Straker, organized and executed the event with a team of distinguished colleagues. The forum aimed to equip students with the necessary tools to maintain a weapon-free, drug-free, violence-free, bully-free, and gang-free school environment. Notable panelists included Dr. Ralph Simpson - CCPS Deputy Superintendent of Administrative Services, Dr. Reynard Walker - CCPS Chief of Safety and Security, Mr. Calleb Obumba - CCPS Coordinating Supervisor for Community Schools, and the event was moderated by Mr. Harold Walker, Jr. - Assistant Principal of Mt. Zion High School.