A community-focused safety and education event aimed at helping parents better understand the challenges facing youth in today’s digital world is set to take place at Hidden Valley High School. The presentation, led by School Resource Officer David Gomez, is designed to provide families within the Three Rivers School District with practical tools and current information on issues affecting children both online and in everyday life.
Officer Gomez brings more than 12 years of law enforcement experience to the role, along with over a decade dedicated specifically to educating youth and parents. His work has centered on bridging the gap between law enforcement, schools, and families, with an emphasis on prevention and awareness. The upcoming event reflects that mission, offering a structured opportunity for parents and guardians to better understand evolving risks and how to address them at home.
The presentation will cover several key areas impacting young people today, including social media safety, the growing concern surrounding internet predators, and the normalization of drug use among youth. It will also examine the broader effects of drugs and alcohol on developing minds, as well as the importance of teaching safe and responsible use of electronic devices. These topics have become increasingly relevant as technology continues to shape how young people communicate, learn, and interact with the world around them.
In addition to outlining these concerns, the event will focus on providing actionable guidance. Attendees can expect to gain insight into real-world safety strategies that can be applied immediately, as well as an overview of current trends across social media platforms and digital applications commonly used by youth. The session will also address how parents can effectively monitor device usage while maintaining open communication with their children, along with reinforcing the importance of digital responsibility and accountability.
The event is open to parents and guardians within the Three Rivers School District and is intended for adults 18 years of age and older. Organizers have structured the evening to allow for both learning and discussion, giving attendees the opportunity to ask questions and engage directly with the presenter.
The gathering will be held at Hidden Valley High School, located at 651 Murphy Creek Road in Grants Pass. Activities will begin with a free dinner served from 5:30 p.m. to 6:00 p.m., followed by the main presentation from 6:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. A question-and-answer session will take place from 7:00 p.m. to 7:30 p.m., allowing participants to explore topics in greater depth and seek clarification on specific concerns.
Community members interested in attending are encouraged to RSVP in advance by contacting jocoprevention@gmail.com. The event is part of a broader effort to strengthen partnerships between schools, law enforcement, and families, with the goal of creating safer environments for children both online and within the community.
As digital platforms continue to evolve and new challenges emerge, events like this serve as a resource for families seeking reliable, experience-based information. By focusing on education, awareness, and proactive strategies, organizers hope to equip parents with the knowledge needed to better protect and guide the next generation.