Apr 24, 2008 8:34 PM
The UFT Elementary Charter School, in observance of Violence Prevention Week, hosted a special interactive assembly program on March 24 at which the New York City Police Department Community Outreach Unit made a presentation to students on strategies for avoiding potentially violent situations. The school’s 1st- and 2nd-graders participated in sociodramas relating to bullying. For 3rd-graders the emphasis was on gang awareness. “Our students asked critical questions and were enthusiastic throughout the performances,” said Rita Danis, school leader. “Conversations continued within our classroom communities about possible scenarios and how they would deal with them. They eagerly wrote letters of appreciation to the NYPD.” It was explained that no community or demographic is immune to gang influence or bullying, and that becoming aware of that reality is the first step to managing it and achieving a more orderly and tranquil environment. The complexities of the problems were expressed in terms that the young audience could understand. The event was organized by Rudelina Gomes, the school’s chapter leader and counselor. UFT Director of School Safety Sterling Roberson and the union’s liaisons to charter schools, Janella Hinds and Judy Walker, also attended.