Human Trafficking in America’s Schools
Comments from Human Trafficking in America’s Schools Attendees:
Rene’ Yoesel, Director of School Counseling, Missouri Department of Elementary and Secondary Education: “It is critically important for our Missouri school counselors to fully understand the warning signs and risk factors associated with trafficking in an effort to appropriately identify, respond and report. Addressing the need for a Human Trafficking response protocol aligned with a victim-centered approach will provide direction for schools to partner with community resources to deal with the crime and provide services to the victim.”
Tina Reichardt, President, Ursuline Academy: “The session, hosted by Congresswoman Ann Wagner, brought this information to private and public schools in St. Louis. As child advocates, we must find ways to educate our students and teachers in order to prevent trafficking and save lives. We now have contacts and a forum from which to receive expert advice as well as a format to exchange shared experiences among our schools in better serving our students.”
Chad Towers, Counselor, Fort Zumwalt West Counselor: “The human trafficking seminar was eye-opening and extremely helpful. It clarified exactly what it is, the prevalence, and some practical warning signs in our schools and community.”
Terry Harris, Executive Director of Student Services, Rockwood School District: “I wanted as many Rockwood counselors, social workers, principals, teachers and administrators as possible to hear this message and we all walked away informed and with the resources to help any student in such a horrific situation.”
Wagner addresses training session attendees
Wagner speaks withAmanda Colegrove of the Coalition Against Trafficking and Exploitation
Wagner talking with presenter Eve Birge, from the US Dept. of Education
Wagner speaking with attendees to discuss the impact of sex trafficking in St. Louis