The Santa Monica College Public Policy Institute will present a four-day community spring symposium May 13-17 that takes on the issue of urban youth, with a special focus on young people in foster care.
The symposium will feature a variety of events, including lectures, roundtable discussions, a film screening and an original musical drama written and performed by former foster-care youth.
“We are bringing together local, regional and statewide leaders to discuss the needs of youth in our communities and how best governmental and nongovernmental agencies can address those needs,” said Richard Tahvildaran-Jesswein, Public Policy Institute associate director and political science professor. “We look forward to outcomes that will improve the lives of young people.”
One event highlight is “Stop Requested” by The Possibility Project on May 13 at 7 p.m. at The Broad Stage in Santa Monica. This performance highlights the realities faced by foster-care youth and what happens when they leave foster care. A $50 donation is requested.
On May 14 at 11:15 a.m., Paul Tough, author of the New York Times bestseller “How Children Succeed” and a contributor to The New Yorker magazine, will give the keynote address. Tough challenges the belief that intelligence, endlessly measured by test scores, is the sole indicator of value in our education system. In his book, he argues that noncognitive skills, or character, are better indicators of success. His talk will take place in Humanities and Social Science Lecture Hall 165 on SMC’s main campus, 1900 Pico Blvd. Free. Admission is free, but seating is limited.
For a complete schedule, visit smc.edu/ppi
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