On Monday, April 3rd, OLHMS 6th grade scholars graduated from the Oak Lawn Police Department’s EDGE program. EDGE (EDucation for Gang Evasion) started in 1995 and was designed to meet specific needs of children who are subjected to pressures of gang involvement and activity.
Throughout the program, students learned about the dangers of gang affiliation, personal safety tips and how to avoid gang related violence, problem solving, conflict resolution, and decision making skills, and meditation techniques as an alternative to physical confrontation. Students also learn that they have a voice in their community. Their voice helps them develop a sense of ownership to help keep their neighborhoods safe.
At the conclusion of the program, students were also introduced to K9 Officer Thor! He is a German Shepherd and Belgian Malinois mix who was trained with Officer Carroll in apprehension and drug detection. Students were excited to see Thor in action during their last EDGE class!
During the celebration, some of our OLHMS scholars were given the opportunity to read their original poems about their experiences throughout the program and how they pledge to live their lives without drugs and gangs. The students recognized were Evelyn S., Evelynn R., Nivea B., Nathan G., and Jacob O. We thank the OLPD officers for their time and lessons throughout the EDGE program!
