Cardozo Education Campus Leads the Way with Exemplary Implementation
As communities across the nation observe Gun Violence Prevention Month this June, DC Public Schools’ (DCPS) School Mental Health Department is taking bold steps to address this public health crisis through education, prevention, and youth engagement. At the forefront of this work is the launch and expansion of the “Where’s Daryl?” curriculum, a powerful, interactive gun violence prevention program designed to spark critical conversations among middle school students about choices, consequences, and community safety.
The “Where’s Daryl?” curriculum, developed by Designmatters at ArtCenter College of Design, uses video storytelling and peer-led dialogue to explore the impact of gun violence on youth, families, and neighborhoods. The centerpiece of the preventive program is Daryl, a fictional but relatable student who, through his involvement with guns, misses important milestones in his life: birthday parties, hanging out with friends, and even his first time in love. The curriculum invites young people to critically examine why some youth carry guns, the personal and societal costs of gun violence, and how to make safer choices. DCPS’s implementation of the curriculum aims to empower students to become agents of change within their schools and communities.
This year, the School Mental Health Department launched a citywide effort to roll out “Where’s Daryl?” in middle school campuses. Middle school social workers have received specialized training to facilitate the curriculum in a way that is trauma-informed, culturally responsive, and engaging for students.
Cardozo Education Campus: A Model of Excellence
Cardozo Education Campus has emerged as a leader in the implementation of “Where’s Daryl?” thanks to the commitment and creativity of its school social work team. Led by veteran DCPS social workers Ingrid McMillian and James Banks, Cardozo’s middle school team has seamlessly woven the curriculum into advisory periods and mental health awareness programming, creating a safe space for students to explore real-life issues that directly affect their communities.
“Our students see the impact of gun violence firsthand, and it’s critical that they have a voice in the conversation,” said McMillan. “Where’s Daryl? gives them that voice. It’s not just about what happens in the videos—it’s about the dialogue, the reflection, and the sense of empowerment that follows.”
Students at Cardozo have responded with curiosity, sharing that the curriculum feels relevant, authentic, and impactful. “It made me think about my choices and how I want to live,” said one 7th grader.
Looking Ahead
DCPS School Mental Health is committed to continuing the expansion of the “Where’s Daryl?” curriculum as part of a broader public health approach to gun violence prevention. The School Mental Health Department is collaborating closely with community-based organizations, DC agencies, and school leadership to ensure students have access to mental health supports and educational programming that promote resilience, agency, and safety.
As Gun Violence Prevention Month continues, DCPS celebrates the dedication of its social workers, educators, and mental health teams who are leading the way in equipping students with the tools they need to create change.
