Local News

Councilwoman Has Plan To Curb School Violence

BALTIMORE (WJZ) ―

They are trying to stop the violence inside Baltimore City schools.  The problem is so bad, the City Council is stepping in.

Dennis Edwards has more on their plan.

Councilwoman Agnes Welch wants schools to start teaching students conflict resolution: how to resolve problems without violence.

The nation's attention turned to Baltimore after video of a student attacking art teacher Jolita Berry provided evidence for criminal charges.

"I'm so upset over the way our children are getting along with one another, with the teachers and people just talking about it," Welch said.

She came to this conclusion after watching coverage of a Baltimore Examiner photographer pushed to the ground by a student trying to take her camera.  These are just some of the violent incidents Welch believes could be avoided if the school system were to start teaching classes on conflict resolution.

"We want our young people to get in touch with their better selves, to know how to get along with one another, resolving their differences other than physically.  That's what the legislation is about," Welch said.

School officials declined interviews about Welch's resolution but students believe it could be a good idea.

Aubrey Collins is a sophomore at Digital Harbor who admits things can get rowdy at times and there are times conflict resolution skills could come in handy.

"If kids learn or teens my age learn how to express themselves rather than throwing their fists or arguing and cussing each other, I think we'll be fine," Collins said.

Welch is hoping her non-binding resolution will get a public hearing late next month.

(© MMVIII, CBS Broadcasting Inc. All Rights Reserved.)

---