On Tuesday, February 13th, New Haven High gathered in the gymnasium to learn about domestic violence. Sila Karacal, an Assistant Prosecuting Attorney, traveled here to educate the students of New Haven High about domestic violence and abusive relationships. Sila received her undergraduate degree at Oklahoma State University and went to law school at Syracuse University, now working at the Franklin County Prosecuting Attorney’s Office.
Students learned that 85% of domestic violence victims are women and that domestic violence is the leading cause of injury to women between the ages of 15 and 44 in the United States.
McKenzie Overschmidt expressed, “I was really surprised by all of the facts that were shared with us. Living in such a small town, no one ever really thinks this is a big deal, but I now realize that it is.”
Claire Laune was asked what she thought about the assembly. Claire replied, “I think that it was good that we learned about domestic violence and abuse in dating. I think that this was a perfect time to talk about this with all of the sexual harassment accusations arising through the media. This assembly really opened my eyes.”
Makenzie Munsinger was asked what she liked and disliked about the assembly. She commented, “I really liked learning about all of the facts that were shared with us. It made me realize how common domestic violence really is. I didn’t dislike anything about the assembly because I believe that it is really important for people of all ages to know about domestic violence and violence in dating, and that it is important to say something if it happens to you.”
Science teacher Wendy Oelrichs mentioned, “I hope that our students listened carefully and learned something from the presentation. The information that Ms. Karacal shared was eye-opening. I also hope that if any of our students are in unhealthy relationships, that what they learned will give them the courage to get out before something bad happens.”