PODCAST: Providence Student Union wants police officers removed from schools

PROVIDENCE, R.I. (AP) — A high school students’ right organization in Rhode Island has started a campaign to demand the removal of police officers from their high schools.

Thirty teenage members of Providence Student Union rallied at City Hall on Wednesday, also calling for an increase in the use of guidance counselors and restorative justice.

Restorative justice is an approach to justice that uses dialogue and mediation to resolve disciplinary issues, instead of punitive measures.

The students say they would like to have safety teams trained in de-escalation and conflict resolution rather than resource officers.

City Councilor Nirva LaFortune says she plans to work with the group and city public safety officials to file an ordinance.

School Superintendent Chris Maher says safety is a top priority and argues officers are needed for emergency situations.

WPRO’s Tara Granahan spoke with Arely Diaz from the Providence Student Union. Listen below:

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