WHEREAS, In the State of California, children, youth, and young adults under 25 years of age comprise roughly one-third of the state’s population; and

WHEREAS, The youth of California are among the state’s greatest assets, and are an important indicator of our future prosperity. The youth of the state are tomorrow’s entrepreneurs, educators, and community leaders, and need the education and training to participate and succeed in the global economy; and

WHEREAS, The youth of California are human beings entitled to dignity, respect, equality, and a life free from violence and harassment. Violence and harassment can have lifelong negative impacts on an individual’s self-esteem, mental and physical health, growth, and opportunity for advancement; and

WHEREAS, All California children deserve a safe and high-quality education; and

WHEREAS, The safety and well-being of many students, teachers, and school staff are jeopardized by crime, violence, and other issues, such as substance abuse, gangs, vandalism, sexual violence, harassment, bullying, and absenteeism in our schools; and

WHEREAS, Students should be ensured of a safe elementary and secondary education that is free from disruption so that they can grow and develop in healthy and positive ways and lead happy and fulfilling lives and are prepared to either enter into the workforce or start a successful college career; now, therefore, be it