Getting your Trinity Audio player ready...

The Selma City Schools hosted a forum on Wednesday night at Selma High School intending to bring the community leaders and parents to discuss the issues affecting students.

SCS Superintendent Dr. Zickeyous Byrd, Selma High School Principal Stoney Pritchett, Selma Mayor James Perkins Jr., Selma Police Chief Kenta Fulford, and Drug-Free Community of Dallas County Executive Director Jerria Martin led the forum with the theme, “Stronger Together.”

We were disappointed with the turnout as only 50 people attended the forum. Three media outlets, teachers, three Selma City Councilwomen, and a handful of organizations were among that group.

How can a school system, Mayor, and Police Chief help the students when their parents fail to show up?

We understand that the forum was held on a Wednesday night when the church is being held for some parents. We also understand that some families have illnesses or working at the time of the forum.

But for those without illness or not suffering a family crisis, there’s no excuse to skip the forum. Parents, your kids’ future is on the line. The SCS needs your help identifying issues affecting the next generation, especially with drugs and gang violence.

The forum had a consensus, raising the youth starts in their homes.

“We can’t count on the police or the church to raise our children, it starts at home,” Fulford said. “Some parents are afraid to go into their children’s room. My parents always went into my room. Our children are in trouble.”

Perkins added: “I don’t understand when kids tell their parents what to do Every generation has a rebellion in them, but we always checked our children.”

We couldn’t agree more. Until the parents start taking care of business at home, the problems will get worse.