TRAINING IN SCHOOLS: School Prevention/Intervention Programs
The Capital Region’s Gang Prevention Program provides various educational and awareness programs for children in grades 3 to 12. The presentations are modified for each grade level (elementary, middle, high school). Here is an example of some of the programs.
Elementary Level – Discuss the definition of a gang. Discuss and role-play RESPECT and PEER PRESSURE. Discuss the “PIGEONS vs. EAGLES” analogy. Provide a short overview of how gang identifiers (bandanas, beads, etc.) create a negative reaction. Explaining how the media (music videos, movies, etc.) impacts their behavior (Fantasy vs. reality). Discuss the importance of positive role models. Provide recreational programs and alternatives that they can become involved with.
Middle School Level – Discuss the PEER PRESSURES associated with teens and gangs. Discuss the need for ACCEPTANCE. View a series of gang prevention videos that will generate feedback and create options for the students. Discuss gang lifestyles (Drugs, probation, truancy, incarceration, etc.). Engage and discuss the students in prison facility trips and other related intervention programs (tutoring, mentoring, etc.). Discuss media impact as stated above. Also provide recreational programs and alternatives that they may want to become involved with.
High School Level – Discuss gangs and there impact on their lives/communities. View gang prevention videos/gang related movies and conduct feedback sessions. Administer a “self-test” that reflects on their behaviors and lifestyles. Discuss gang lifestyles as stated above. Discuss higher education and its importance. Class involvement in Youth Assistance Program trips “CHOICES” to NYS Prison facilities. Provide options available (tutoring, mentoring, job training, etc.).
For training or assistance in implementing Gang intervention contact:
Capital Region NY Gang Prevention Coordinator
Ron “Cook” Barrett
Department of Youth and Family Services
175 Central Ave. Albany, NY 12206
(518) 434-5723