The government meeting held on June 18, 2025, in Prince George's County, Maryland, focused on addressing the pressing issue of gun violence among youth. The discussions highlighted the need for early intervention and mental health support in schools to combat this growing concern.

The meeting began with a discussion on the appropriate age to start conversations about emotional regulation and conflict resolution. One participant emphasized that starting these discussions in middle school may be too late, as issues related to gun violence are increasingly prevalent in both middle and high schools. They suggested that introducing trauma-informed and mental health services at the elementary level could be more effective in equipping children with the necessary skills to manage their emotions constructively.

Tabriz McAllister, another participant, echoed this sentiment, advocating for the integration of social-emotional learning in school curricula. They pointed out that many middle and high school students have been found in possession of firearms, either bringing them to school or being involved in police interventions. This alarming trend underscores the urgency of implementing preventive measures earlier in a child's education.

The meeting concluded with a consensus on the importance of increasing access to mental health resources in schools, particularly for younger students. Participants agreed that proactive measures are essential to address the root causes of gun violence and to foster a safer environment for all students.

Overall, the discussions at the meeting underscored a critical need for early intervention strategies and enhanced mental health support in educational settings to mitigate the risks associated with gun violence among youth. Further steps will be necessary to implement these recommendations effectively.