Officer Star Hunt is G.R.E.A.T. with kids everywhere.
Kids think Officer Elizabeth Hunt is G.R.E.A.T., but in this particular instance that means Gang Resistance Education and Training. As YPD’s school liaison officer, Elizabeth wears many hats including teaching the G.R.E.A.T. program.
Experience and research shows that it takes more than special anti-gang law enforcement to attack gang violence and influence.
Using the G.R.E.A.T. curriculum, Officer Hunt joins 7th and 8th grade classrooms to teach positive life messages. These are designed to prevent youth violence, delinquency, and gang membership. Students learn what gangs are really about and that the family message that gang members promote is false.
But it’s much more than just an anti-gang message. The course covers life skills that the kids are beginning to realize are important. They participate in role playing, brainstorming, class discussion, group exercises, and work book lessons to combat negative gang influences they may find in their neighborhoods.
As school liaison, Officer Elizabeth Hunt also works on other important programs for kids, attends school functions, and handles school-related incidents. Contact her by e-mail or call the Ypsilanti Police Department, (734) 483-9510