Parent Advocates for Safer Communities and Stronger Schools Initiative (PASCSS)

Empowering Families Through Faith and Education

As a God-fearing, Jesus Christ-centered organization, the Parent Advocates for Safer Communities and Stronger Schools Initiative (PASCSS) stands firm in the belief that education begins at home. Parents are entrusted with the sacred duty to lead by example, nurturing their children in the ways of righteousness and wisdom. Proverbs 22:6 poignantly reminds us, "Train up a child in the way he should go: and when he is old, he will not depart from it." This timeless proverb underscores the enduring impact of early spiritual training and the vital importance of setting a Godly example for children to emulate.

Burton White of Harvard University eloquently writes, "The informal education that the family provides for their children makes more of an impact on a child's total education than the formal education system. If a family does its job well, the professional [teacher] can then provide effective training. If not, there may be little a professional can do." Parents are indeed the first teachers, imparting lessons of faith, love, respect, discipline, instruction, social-emotional skills, communication, moral values, and so much more.

The Purpose and Goals of PASCSS

The primary purpose of the PASCSS Initiative is to drive meaningful change in the realm of school discipline, particularly among African American students, and to foster improvements in the relationships among parents, children, teachers, peers and members of the community. The initiative focuses on various aspects and potential solutions to cultivate a more equitable and nurturing educational environment.

Core Focus Areas

The PASCSS Initiative employs a holistic approach, using Biblical context to support comprehensive programming aimed at reducing disciplinary incidents and promoting positive behaviors. The discussion areas encompass several key components:

·         Resiliency: Building the capacity to recover quickly from difficulties and adapt to challenges with strength and perseverance.

·         Self-control: Developing the ability to regulate one's emotions, thoughts, and behaviors in the face of temptations and impulses.

·         Decision-making skills: Enhancing the ability to make thoughtful and informed choices that reflect moral and ethical values.

·         Conflict resolution: Equipping individuals with strategies to peacefully resolve disagreements and foster harmonious relationships.

Raising Awareness

Additionally, the PASCSS Initiative is committed to raising awareness about critical issues that impact the educational landscape, including:

·         Civil rights and liberties: Ensuring that all students are aware of their rights and the protections afforded to them under the law.

·         Federal and state educational policies, rules, and regulations: Educating parents and students about the policies that govern the education system and advocating for reforms that promote fairness and equity.

Conclusion

The Parent Advocates for Safer Communities and Stronger Schools Initiative (PASCSS) is dedicated to empowering families through faith and education. By addressing the root causes of disciplinary issues and fostering strong, respectful relationships within the educational community, PASCSS aims to create a safer, more supportive, and inclusive environment for all students. Through the unwavering commitment of parents, educators, and community members, we can build a brighter future where every child has the opportunity to thrive and succeed.

Reference 

1. White, B. L. (1990). The first three years of life. Englewood Cliffs, NJ: Prentice Hall.

Contact us for more information about the PASCSS Initiative