JCPS students take lessons on gang resistance in GREAT program [Video]

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 …