Phoenix Curriculum recognized for helping to steer area youth from gangs, drugs

JACKSON, Tenn — A 3-year collaboration in the Hub City is celebrated Thursday afternoon.

The “Phoenix Curriculum” was a partnership between the school system, Jackson Police Department and Area Relief Ministries to help curb the youth of Jackson away from gangs and drugs.

“We recognize that what we all want is the betterment of Jackson and that begins with the children and youth of Jackson,” Hub Club program director, Charles Currie said.

The program reached around 1,700 students in 5th, 6th and 7th grades in nine Jackson-Madison County Schools, an age group state officials said needs the program the most.

“Studies have shown that’s when you have the most influence, in those grades before they get into high school,” Tennessee’s Office of Criminal Justice Programs, Mike Hill explained. “That’s the prime time to get with them.”

“The program as a whole is about making good choices, understanding how to avoid getting into problems and getting out of them if you get into them,” Captain Mike Holt of the Jackson Police Department said.

Organizers said they hope the “Phoenix Program” can continue fan the flames of knowledge throughout the Jackson community.

“I think the symbolism there reflects what the beautify that Jackson has but the beauty that is to come,” Currie said.

“Reaching 1,700 kids, that’s got to have some impact down the road, hopefully we’ll see that very soon,” Hill said.