​The Safe Schools/Healthy Students (SS/HS) Initiative is designed to prevent violence and substance abuse among our Nation's youth, schools, and communities. ​The STARS Project is a community partnership funded by the SS/HS Initiative. The mission of the STARS Project is to provide safe and orderly schools and support services for all students that enable them to reach their highest potential.

This is accomplished through a thriving community that integrates resources to meet the educational, emotional, and behavioral needs of students. The project partners include: Rockdale County Sheriff's Office, City of Conyers Police Department, GRN Community Service Board, Department of Juvenile Justice, A.R. "Gus" Barksdale Boys & Girls Club, and Rockdale County Public Schools. We also work with local businesses and civic organizations to accomplish our goal of providing students a safe and healthy learning environment.

There are five (5) specific objectives within the framework of the project:

• Prevent violence in our schools.
• Promote healthy lifestyles free from tobacco, alcohol, and drugs.
• Protect against bullies and other threats.
• Provide school-based mental health services.
• Prepare our youngest learners to be ready for kindergarten.