DOWNINGTOWN, PA — Students from the Making Connections programs at all three Downingtown Area School District (DASD) high schools joined peers from across Chester County to take part in the Chester County District Attorney’s Office Student and Law Enforcement Symposium.
The annual event, organized by the District Attorney’s Office, aims to strengthen dialogue between young people and police officers. It serves as a platform for open discussion about issues affecting youth and law enforcement interactions, particularly within communities of color.
“These activities provide opportunities for natural dialogue between officers and students,” said Justin Brown, DASD Director of Student Relations and School Climate. “Through these connections, students and officers build trust, rapport, and stronger foundations for the future.”
Throughout the day-long symposium, students participated in interactive sessions, including an overview of the criminal justice system, small-group discussions, and role-play scenarios designed to simulate real-world encounters with police. The event also featured a panel discussion with law enforcement representatives, during which two DASD students volunteered to share the stage with officers.
“The student participants of the Law Enforcement Symposium were afforded a unique opportunity to gain a different perspective on police officers by role-playing scenarios where law enforcement would have contact with teenagers,” said Annie Williams, a Downingtown High School West teacher. “Both parties were challenged to understand the other’s point of view with compassion and fairness. This event was a great step in bridging the gap between minorities and law enforcement in a positive manner that brings hope to both sides.”
Now in its sixth year, DASD’s Making Connections program continues to promote mutual understanding between students and law enforcement. By encouraging empathy, open dialogue, and shared problem-solving, the program aims to build trust and foster stronger relationships between the next generation and those sworn to protect their communities.
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