Leslie Etheridge, director for Harris County Department of Education’s (HCDE) Center for Safe and Secure Schools (CSSS), served as the keynote speaker at the Third Annual Safe and Supportive Schools Collaborative Education Summit. The half-day event brought together educators, parents, youth advocates and community leaders in a townhall setting to share lived experiences, exchange ideas and help create safe and supportive environments.

Held Oct. 3 at the Fifth Ward Multi-Service Center, Etheridge led discussion topics throughout the day that included school safety and student rights, parent empowerment, mental health and wellness and legislative updates from the latest session. CSSS also exhibited a table and team members were on hand to share division services and resources to summit attendees.