JEFFERSONVILLE, Ind. — We’re a few weeks into the new school year for Jeffersonville High School students and high school seniors are already learning about life after graduation.
On Monday, students got a presentation from a JCPS police officer, and former LMPD officer, Amber Ross.
Ross says she speaks to different schools around the Metro to try and prepare kids for the future.
"There is nobody there holding your hand," Ross said.
Her presentation focused on different tragedies she's seen too many times as an officer.
Ross focused on the dangers of social media, candy colored fentanyl, sextortion, alcohol, and drugs. She gave an example of a former UofL student who died after getting hit by a drunk driver.
"The car flipped on her, and she couldn't breathe because the car was on top of her and too heavy," she explained. "The purpose is to bring awareness for drugs, alcohol, and to not leave drinks unattended at parties."
Ross gave statistics about fatal crashes in Louisville so far this year.
According to Ross, there have been 65 deadly crashes and, in those crashes, 13 of them weren't wearing seat belts and four of them DUI or drug related.
"Always wear your seat belt, I know you'll probably think it's not cool, but put your seatbelt on," she said.
Students Tristan and Avani came to the presentation with an open mind and surprised at many of the temptations their fellow students face every day.
"I didn’t really know how severe the situation is in Louisville with alcohol and alcohol related crashes," Tristan said.
Avani said they never realized how bad it would be on senior trips without adults and how it could go left quickly.
Academy coach Natalie Woods, says officers like Ross are crucial for not only seniors leaving high school, but freshman who are just getting started.
Ross said the feedback from students is positive, and life changing.
She's heard feedback from students that includes "I've learned responsibilities, positive outlook on life, to be more responsible, to walk away, to say no."
Ross says she plans to do more talks at schools around the Metro.
She also runs a mentorship program called No Girl Lost, which allows a space for girls to go after school.
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