19A - Laserfiche WebLink

Nancy McMillin, Teen Esteem / Teen Esteem PUSD Middle/High School Assemblies — advised that they were seeking $6,000 in funding to allow them to bring their programs into the Pleasanton schools and the program meets the goals of the Youth Master Plan. Ms. McMillin discussed the program advising that it would provide assemblies on drug, alcohol, sexual activities, mental health, and academic stress to students of different age levels. Commissioner Pearce questioned why drug assemblies would be presented to students at elementary schools and what would be different from the health class programs already being conducted in high schools. Ms. McMillin discussed the importance of introducing children to issues they might meet when they get into middle school, and also that the speakers they have are able to discuss items on which high school teachers have limitations. Commissioner Allan was advised by Ms. McMillin that if full funding was allocated they would be able to provide four assemblies, but would need to re-evaluate if less funding was allocated. Commissioner Brown questioned whether more high schools were being served than other schools and Ms. McMillin agreed more high schools have received the assemblies. But advised that middle schools had been served for the last three years and more recently elementary schools. She also provided Commissioner Sowers information on why high schools have been targeted and the different between these assemblies and health classes being provided at the high schools. Ms. McMillin noted that students seem to feel freer to talk with someone from Teen Esteem rather than one of their teachers. Commissioner Chew advised that she is a supporter of Teen Esteem, but does not receive any funding from them, but has attended their assemblies. Commissioner Ambrosiewicz was advised that funding for the program would be used for scheduling, technology, and payment of some speakers. Emily Taylor, Valley Humane Society / Expanded Humane Education Services — advised that funding was being requested for the Humane Hero's Critter Camp Program that provides an opportunity for participants to learn life skills. The Kindness Club allows kids to recreate and teach respect for themselves and others. Ms. Taylor advised that participants receive a free lunch and partner with other people during the program. Fifty-five percent of youth served in the program are from Pleasanton and the grant would allow Valley Humane to reach out to high-risk youth. Chairperson Rigl questioned how this program addressed social issues rather than animal related careers referenced. Ms. Taylor advised that the camp programs are with animals and provide techniques for minding others. Denise Bridges, Livermore Valley Performing Arts Center/ Art in the School with Cheza Nami / Art in the Schools with Livermore Amador Symphony— provided information about the programs and the number of students that would be served. If allocated, the grant would pay for a conductor for the symphony program. Youth Commission Minutes March 8,2017 Page 4