Safe School Task Force: University–Community Partnership to Promote Student Development and a Safer School Environment

Background: The Asian/Pacific Islander Youth Violence Prevention Center (APIYVPC) focuses its youth violence prevention efforts on community mobilization by partnering with Kailua High School and other local community groups.

Objectives: This paper describes the development and activities of the Safe School Task Force (SSTF) and the lessons learned.

Methods: In response to concerns of school, community members, and students, the SSTF was organized to promote student leadership in raising awareness about problems related to violence.

Lessons Learned: Collaboration among the school, community, and the university places students in leadership roles to reduce school violence and enhances their self-efficacy to improve their school environment. To increase SSTF effectiveness, more attention must be paid to student recruitment, consistent community partnerships, and gaining teacher buy-in.

Conclusions: This partnership may be useful in multicultural communities to provide students the opportunities to learn about violence prevention strategies, community mobilization, and leadership skills.