4 or 40: FAQ's
What is the DA's Youth Advisory Board?
The mission of the District Attorney's Youth Advisory Board (YAB) is to educate and advise the community. We aim to spread general awareness about the needs and challenges of the youth, and pressing issues affecting young people in San Diego County, resulting in a positive change throughout the community.
How did the Youth Advisory Board begin?
San Diego District Attorney Bonnie Dumanis created the board in April 2008 as a way for her office increase awareness about youth issues in the local community.
Currently, YAB membership is composed of Lincoln and Morse High School students in San Diego's 4th District and the group is looking to make an impact county-wide.
Goals of the YAB:
- Educate younger kids
- Show the real story on youth violence, community, and life
- Educate young adults
- Educate those in and out of jail
What is "4 or 40: The Choice is Yours"?
The message of "4 or 40: The Choice is Yours" is: The choices you make during your four years in school will impact your next 40 years. The film's message is not about crime or violence; it's about choices. The focus is on positive choices and possibilities.
What are the Youth Advisory Board's plans for "4 or 40: The Choice is Yours"?
Following the August 27, 2009 premiere at Lincoln High School, members of the Youth Advisory Board will visit classrooms and youth serving organization across the county to speak about the film's empowering message. Interested principals, school officials and youth workers interested in having Youth Advisory Board members visit your school, please e-mail Seth Johnson.
Who put "4 or 40" together?
Several groups contributed to the making of "4 or 40," including the San Diego District Attorney's Office, Lincoln High School students and administrators and The Studio at Kilby Pond (a local production company).
What are they doing now?
There is a longstanding and serious rivalry between Morse High School and Lincoln High School based on racial barriers, gang conflicts, and perceived differences. The Youth Advisory Board has been developing a curriculum to present in middle schools. The presentations will focus on community unification and choices. Watch video.