Together We Learn^TM was created in 2016 in partnership with the Dallas Chapter of the National Black Police Association after the deaths of Alton Sterling and Philando Castile, two African American men tragically involved in pedestrian and traffic stop police interactions.  Project Unity recognized the need to establish a program aimed to help bring youth and police together to have dialogue on traffic stops, building trust in the community while educating youth on what to do during a police interaction.

Together We Learn is taught by Dallas Police Department officers who are excited to work with youth and share their knowledge. The program offers 90 minutes of interactive dialogue, educational curriculum and hands-on simulation of a traffic stop in addition to providing safe driving instructions and police career information. While geared for teens of driving age, the program is also offered to college students thanks to our partnership with Southern Methodist University’s Athletic Department. Through the program, we hope to prevent undesired encounters with students as they become our next generation of drivers.

• Ensure young drivers are educated on how to act and react in police encounters
• Reduce risks of unnecessary use of force during traffic and pedestrian interactions
• Improve community and police relations through dialogue opportunities

At the conclusion of the program, students receive a certificate of completion to validate their training along with driver safety materials which provide reminders on what to do when stopped by the police.

Senate Bill 30 (SB30), also known as the “Community Safety Education Act,” was passed by the 85th Texas Legislature in 2017. It was introduced by State Senator Royce West and signed into law by Governor Greg Abbott. SB30 mandates specific instruction on traffic stop behavior by motorists and law enforcement officers for students in grades 9-12 attending public and charter schools in the state of Texas. Learn more about SB30 by visiting this link.

Data Shows (2024 school surveys)

1. 98% of students improved their understanding of laws related to driving
2. 98% of students improved their understanding of how to act and react to law enforcement during a traffic and pedestrian stop
3. Post training perception of law enforcement
4. 23% much more positive
5. 53% positive
6. 24% no change