Gang Prevention

Gang presence in the school setting has become common place. When I think of gangs, I think teenagers--boys and girls of the high school age. But sadly, middle school children have fallen prey to gang membership and recruitment for these gangs begins in elementary school. The G.R.E.A.T program is an intervention for younger children. The goal of the program is for law enforcement officers and elementary-aged children to establish a relationship that will bond the officers and the children at an early age, focusing on 4th and 5th grade. It also encourages parent/child interaction to reinforce the lessons that are taught.