Opinion: Safety of children is top priority

The following is a political advertisement paid for by the committee to elect Lisa Zavogiannis, Jana Wilson Ringemann Treasurer

By Lisa Zavogiannis, candidate for District Attorney General, 31st Judicial District

There is no greater responsibility than protecting our children.

Every student deserves to walk into school each morning focused on learning, not worrying about their safety. Every parent deserves the peace of mind that comes from knowing our schools are prepared, our law enforcement agencies are supported, and our justice system is ready to respond when threats arise.

As your next District Attorney, I believe school safety must remain one of our highest priorities. The District Attorney's Office has a critical role to play, not only after a crime has occurred, but by building the partnerships that help prevent tragedies before they happen.

Strong relationships with our local schools are essential. School administrators, teachers, counselors, and staff are often the first to recognize when a student is in crisis or when a threat may be developing. Open communication and trust between schools and the District Attorney's Office create an environment where concerns can be addressed quickly and effectively.

Equally important are our partnerships with local law enforcement and School Resource Officers. These men and women are on the front lines of protecting our children every day. They deserve a District Attorney's Office that is accessible, responsive, and committed to working alongside them. When officers encounter school-related incidents or receive reports of potential threats, they should have immediate access to experienced prosecutors who can provide legal guidance and help move investigations forward efficiently.

That is why I am committed to assigning a dedicated Assistant District Attorney to handle all juvenile matters. This prosecutor will develop expertise in juvenile law while serving as a consistent resource for law enforcement, School Resource Officers, and school administrators. Having one prosecutor focused on juvenile cases promotes consistency, strengthens communication, and allows school threat investigations to be handled promptly and thoroughly.

School threats must always be taken seriously. Whether made in person, online, or through social media, every threat deserves careful investigation. As District Attorney, I will evaluate each case based on its unique facts and circumstances. When the evidence supports criminal prosecution, I will not hesitate to hold individuals accountable.

At the same time, we must recognize that some cases involve young people experiencing mental health challenges or other underlying issues that require intervention alongside accountability. Justice requires thoughtful, case-by-case decision-making that protects our community while seeking the best possible outcome.

Although we all hope it never happens here, we must also be prepared for the unthinkable. In the event of a mass casualty incident, the District Attorney's Office has a vital role beyond the courtroom. My office will stand beside law enforcement as they investigate the crime and assist in communicating with victims' families and serve as a reliable point of contact throughout the legal process. When the investigation is complete, we will pursue justice with professionalism, compassion, and determination.

School safety is not achieved by one agency acting alone. It requires schools, law enforcement, prosecutors, parents, and the community working together with a shared commitment to protecting our children.

As your District Attorney, I will make school safety a priority every day, not just in times of crisis, but through proactive partnerships, dedicated resources, and steadfast leadership. Our children deserve nothing less.

The preceding article was paid for by the Committee to Elect Lisa Zavogiannis, Jana Wilson Ringemann, Treasurer.