LOUISVILLE, Ky. — Students at Kerrick Elementary School are learning more than just math, science, social studies, and English.
That's thanks to the Gang Resistance Education and Training (GREAT) program, a collaboration between Jefferson County Public Schools (JCPS) and the Louisville Metro Police Department (LMPD). It aims to cut down on gang-related violence.
"We teach 5th and 6th graders about the awareness of gang violence, how to make good choices, and avoid peer pressure," LMPD Officer Tony Sacra said.
The six-week course includes lessons on being a bully, bystander or victim and decision making. Other lessons include the importance of good communication, how to control anger, and respect.
The program's motto has students "promise to be G.R.E.A.T citizens, avoid gangs, and not participate in violence."
Nobody knows that better than 5th-graders Knzl Thompson and Lydia Price.
"If somebody is getting bullied you take action and help. A bystander is someone who just watched and does nothing, and a victim is someone who is getting bullied," Thompson explained, connecting with the first week's lessons.
Meanwhile, Price said she learned how to better control her anger.
"If someone made you really mad don't go and take it out on someone else," she said. "At least scream into your pillow or something, don't go punch somebody."
The students got a refresher on the course and got the chance to share what they learned. Then, they were awarded with a certificate of completion and a sweet treat.
Sacra said he wants to continue bridging the gap between students and officers.
"It gives them the opportunity to interact with officers in a positive atmosphere," he said.
LMPD said they've put over 6,000 JCPS students through the program.
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