On Thursday (Oct. 24), WBLS 107.5 hosted its bi-monthly forum on community issues. This month’s conversation was “Keeping it Cool While Back in School – School Safety Forum.”
Hosted by Dr. Bob Lee, on-air host and Community Affairs Director for WBLS, the conversation centered on anti-bullying, mental health, and anti-violence issues in New York City public schools.
Guest speakers include Mark Rampersant, Director of Security, NYC Public Schools, Tracey Mullet, Inspector, NYPD School Safety Command, Frank Tarentino, Special Agent in Charge, D.E.A., Al and Janet Cohen, Executive Directors, TCIONY (The Community Initiative of NY).
Lee opened up the session by addressing the importance of the forum that took place at Democracy Prep Taino Towers.
“This year, we’re celebrating 50 years of WBLS, and our sister station HOT97 is here too,” Lee said. “Today we’re talking about safety in schools and what we can do to help while you’re getting your education. There are so many things out there, but maybe we can help a little bit.”
Mullet shared how the public schools of New York City are being patrolled by law enforcement.
“Our safety plan for school safety starts with the agent in school. That is your best course. Were there watching. We are where your eyes and ears are, if you come into any trouble, please bring it to your school safety agent,” Mullet explained. “Also, we’re doing checks when you see us in the hallway and vertical patrols at the perimeter of the location.
Tarentino spoke about the dangers of Fentanyl and how it’s impacting young people throughout the region of New York City.
“Fentanyl is the deadliest drug ever made. It’s the deadliest drug that’s on our city streets,’ Tarantino said.“ So I want you to understand that you have to be mindful of what you put in your body and who you associate with,” Tarentino continued.
Rampersant noted that school safety first begins with students.
“I’m glad to talk to young people who are making the right choices and want to contribute to safety,” Rampersant said. “I can tell you, without any level of uncertainty, that the safety in and around schools starts with every one of you.”
Concluding the event, Lee spoke about community stakeholders coming together for the safety of our children.
“It’s the circle of love. We work with a lot of wonderful people in the community. TAG has it going on and we have a mentoring program too,” Lee said. “We can all come together to help all of you get what you need out of life. And that’s a special thing.”