Kansas City students get safety reminders after Trayvon Martin’s death

KANSAS CITY, Mo. - The shooting death of Trayvon Martin in Florida has triggered many parents to give their students a safety talk. Students at Genesis Promise Charter School in Kansas City, Mo., are also getting safety reminders from their teachers and from police.

Dr. Philip Hickman is the education director at Genesis School. He said students attending his school at 3800 East 44th St. are used to hearing gunshots in their neighborhood so reminders about safety have always been part of the program. But Hickman said he is holding school forums where he talks with all students about what to do if they find themselves in a situation where they are threatened by a person with a gun.

During those forums, Kansas City police officer Tony Contreras also reminds students to call 911 if they are in danger. He also said they should run to a neighbor for help or make noise to attract attention to get help when they’re in danger.

Eighth grader Malik McMath said his father gave him a serious talk after the Trayvon Martin’s death.

“He told me that he was worried that what happened to Trayvon could happen to me,” said McMath. “He told me to always keep my cell phone with me and call 911 or call a family member or find an adult I can trust to help me.”

McMath also said he’s more aware of his surroundings and the people around him and he’s also looking out for the safety of his friends.