I am truly encouraged by Dr. Alonso’s call to community members to volunteer in our city schools as a response to the recent wave of violence we have experienced. When working on the Change Project for class, I read The Governor’s Commission On Quality Education In Maryland’s report containing thirty recommendations to address key issues that could improve Maryland’s public education. Recommendation nineteen focuses on challenging businesses, parents, communities, and faith-based organizations to help improve college awareness. I think this approach should also be implemented to help curb the violence in our schools. As Alonso wrote in the letter to community members, "this essential work of making safe schools cannot be done by the administrators, teachers, staff or students at each school alone. I cannot say strongly enough how important it is for families and community members to rally around our schools, our teachers, and our students."

Alonso has set up a team to organize volunteers and there is a working website to sign up to volunteer (here's the website ) and a phone line (410-545-1870). The cost of a background check for each volunteer will be covered. Alonso and his team have taken steps towards what I believe will be invaluable to the Baltimore City School System: investing the people of Baltimore City and giving our students a concrete way to see that their families, the community members, and the City of Baltimore care about not only their safety, but their education and future.