Safe space summer program kicks off at Springfield College

SPRINGFIELD, Mass. (WWLP) – Tuesday was day one of the 2024 Safe Space Summer Program for youth at Springfield College.

This program is all about providing a supportive, fun, and safe learning environment for high school students in the community.

This program was part of a collaboration with Springfield Pride Parade organizers, Springfield College, the city’s Department of Health & Human Services, and Baystate Medical Center to help with youth development.

This program provides students with a new environment where they can be worry-free and learn new skills like self-awareness, relationship building, and responsible decision-making. Students can also learn how to freely express themselves, build confidence and even make friends.

22News spoke with Flo Standish, a teacher in the program, who says it’s all about building knowledge, “Teach them the skills to explain what a safe space is and why it is so important so they don’t have to worry about getting bullied or being made fun of anything that is going to make them want to retreat back home.”

Standish says some students may not be comfortable in large school environments so this will help them to learn and gain more skills so that when they return to school they can feel more comfortable and confident while also educating their peers.

This program is on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 1 p.m. to 6 p.m. until August 26th.

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Kiara Smith is a reporter who has been a part of the 22News team since March 2023. Follow Kiara on X @KiaraBSmith1 and view her bio to see more of her work.

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