Winston-Salem implements youth curfew and mental health support

Winston-Salem is implementing various measures to address youth safety and well-being. The Winston-Salem/Forsyth County Schools (WS/FCS) district is prioritizing student mental health following data from the 2025-2026 academic year. Analysis indicates students are facing anxiety, depression, family issues, and economic difficulties. The district reported 414 suicide prevention evaluations last year. Dr. Heather Schwickrath, Director of Psychological Services, noted that the district follows strict protocols to ensure students in crisis are never left alone. However, a shortage of professionals remains, with one psychologist serving between 2,700 and 3,000 students, far below the recommended ratio of one per 500.

Simultaneously, the city's youth curfew has led to a 26% reduction in police encounters with minors during its first 42 days. Police Chief William Penn Jr. reported that the ordinance has prevented “teen takeovers,” which previously saw hundreds of adolescents congregating in the city center and delaying emergency response times. The Youth Protection Ordinance prohibits minors under 18 from being in public spaces between 10:00 p.m. and 6:00 a.m. without adult supervision, with exceptions for work, school, or religious activities.