Johnson Park Middle School TAPS Graduates Aspire to “Do Good”
Source: https://www.ccsoh.us/
On November 13, 21 students from Johnson Park Middle School celebrated completing the Teen and Police Service (TAPS) Academy. Over 11 weeks, officers from the Columbus Division of Police mentored the students, building trust and changing their perspectives.
Eighth-grader Stev’n Clayborn, initially seeing police officers as disciplinarians and worrying about their perception of him, found the experience transformative. He shared that the officers treated him respectfully, taught him right from wrong, and helped him feel valued, rather than judged.
The TAPS Academy aims to create positive interactions between police and youth, addressing issues like bullying, gun violence, truancy, and drug use. Since its pilot in 2014, the program has partnered with various Columbus City Schools.
This year, students visited the courtroom of Judge Lasheyl Stroud, where they participated in a mock trial, fostering impactful exchanges. Each participant is paired with a CPD officer mentor, and discussions cover critical topics like drugs, alcohol, and crime. Program coordinator Jenny Benson emphasized that TAPS provides a safe space for students to engage openly with officers, emerging as thoughtful leaders.
Image Source: https://www.ccsoh.us/
