What is G.R.E.A.T?

The G.R.E.A.T. Program is a violence prevention curriculum that teaches students important skills to help them avoid gangs, violence, drug abuse, and crime. The purpose of G.R.E.A.T. is to help students develop beliefs and practice behaviors that will help them avoid destructive habits. During the G.R.E.A.T. lessons, students will be working closely with their G.R.E.A.T. officer, who serves as a mentor and positive role model for the class. Throughout the G.R.E.A.T. Program, your child will have the opportunity to discuss ideas, practice skills he/she is learning, and reinforce important reading and writing skills. This class will be offered to all 6th grade students at Farmville Middle School.

What will they learn?

Some of the things your child will be learning in G.R.E.A.T. include:

The truth about gangs and violence.

Students’ roles in their families, schools, and communities.

Identifying realistic goals and how to reach them.

How to make good decisions.

Developing empathy for others.

How to deal with peer pressure.

What to do when you feel angry.

How to resolve conflicts.

How Can You Help?

You can help support the G.R.E.A.T. Program by asking your child to share what he/she is learning. One of the reasons G.R.E.A.T. works so well is that it is a collaborative effort among the Sheriff’s Office, the school, and you! If you have any questions about the program you can contact Deputy Susan Johnson, School Resource Officer, email address: johnss.fms@pitt.k12.nc.us.