Ballou High School is creating space among all of the violence. The group, consisting of freshmen to seniors, is known as the "Knights of Purpose" because they tackle serious topics and sometimes invite successful Black role models to discuss what is going on in their lives. Chancellor Ferebee's visit came shortly after the tragic deaths of a 10-year-old girl named Arianna Davis, who was hit by a stray bullet, and a 17-year-old student named Jefferson Perez, who was shot and killed in the Roosevelt High School parking lot.
One of the Ballou seniors, Mykel Woodbury, initially tried to downplay the impact of these incidents but later admitted that they do affect him deeply, causing him to consider leaving D.C. for his own safety. Another student shared his personal experience of being assaulted by other young individuals on the streets.
During these meetings, students are able to express themselves in a safe space and share their concerns about the rise of violence happening in their neighborhood. Maybe these conversations can help reduce the impact outside events are having on these local students.
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Source: WJLA