G.R.E.A.T.
Introduction
G.R.E.A.T. is another tool that can be used to enhance community policing efforts by combining classroom instruction with the talents and experience of Federal, State and local law enforcement personnel who address issues relating to violent crime and street gangs. The curriculum is taught by certified/sworn, uniformed police officers and Federal agents to elementary, junior high and middle school children. The design and intent of the G.R.E.A.T. Program is to decrease gang and youth violence across the nation.
Included within the G.R.E.A.T. curriculum are many optional and extended activities which reinforce classroom instruction. Both the police officer and teacher work together to reduce gang and youth violence in the school and the community.
Philosophy
The Gang Resistance Education And Training (G.R.E.A.T.) Program is designed to help children set goals for themselves, resist pressures, learn how to resolve conflicts without violence, and understand how gangs and youth violence impact the quality of their lives. G.R.E.A.T. students discover for themselves the ramifications of gang and youth violence through structured exercises and interactive approaches to learning. Through the combined efforts of law enforcement, the schools, and the community, we can make a difference in the lives of children across America by providing them with the necessary skills and information to say "NO" to gangs and acts of random violence.
Signs of Possible Gang Involvement:
- Graffiti on notebooks, walls, or other property
- Tattoos or writing on the skin
- The use of gang language, such as "homeboy," "homegirl," "slob," "cuz," etc.
- The use of monikers (nicknames) instead of given name
- The use of gestures and hand signs
- Wearing clothing associated with gangs
- Admitting gang membership
- Loitering, riding, or "hanging" with a known gang member.