Policy Institute 2006

 
Following last year’s look at early childhood, Voices second annual Policy Institute delved into early adolescence, a developmental stage that can include youth aged 10 to 15, or the 4^th to 9^th grades.  "A New Look At Early Adolescence in Georgia," focusing on children 10 to 15 was held at the Carter Center in Atlanta on Sept. 28, 2006. 

Expert presenters interacted with over 100 attendees that included legislators, representatives from state agencies and members of the advocate community to understand the health and social issues involved to develop a portrait of pre- and early teens in Georgia.

Dr. Kathleen Ethier of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention began with a discussion on adolescent health that included statistical information on early initiation of risky behaviors (sex, drugs, smoking), factors in being overweight or obese, and health care.  Etheir’s said the availability of some statistics, like Georgia children engaging in earlier sex than most of the country, belied a dearth of information on adolescence.  The problem is that adults don’t bother to ask young people about their lives.

Middle school education was the topic presented by Deirdre Johnson, policy director for the Partnership for Excellence in Education.  These years are critical, as student performance in middle school grades directly correlates to high school graduation.  Changes in Georgia demographics reflect a state that is becoming poorer; within five years Georgia will be 50 percent majority black.  To overcome this obstacle, Johnson outlined three new “Rs” that need to become a staple of education in the state:

• Rigor – Algebra 1 by 8^th grade
• Relevance – connect to real world and 21^st century skills set
• Relationships – students need meaningful relationships with adults both within and outside of school

Noted author a youth policy expert Karen Pittman provided the day’s keynote discussing connectedness between youth and their community.  The term “connectedness” simply refers to various relationships adolescents can share with parents and other adults, peers, teachers and community institutions like church.  The integration of family, school and community efforts can provide an appropriate structure with the kind of supportive relationships, safety and opportunity they need to succeed through high school.  Again, relationships are key.

Department of Juvenile Justice Commissioner Albert Murray closed the day with a detailed briefing on an organization that serves 50,000 young offenders each year, with 10-15-year-olds comprising 66 percent of that total.  DJJ emphasizes a program anchored by rigorous education (DJJ is counted as a Georgia school district) and seeks a more holistic approach to reform through close collaboration with schools, DHR and DFCS, juvenile courts and community-based therapy.

Please click on the links below to download presentations from the day.

Karen Pittman - The Ready By 21 Challenge

Dierdre Johnson - Education

Kathleen Ethier - The Body As Baseline

DJJ Commissioner Albert Murray - Safety for Georgia's Communities