According to the Chicago Police Department, it also provides them with positive alternatives, and ways to avoid involvement with violence. The Police Department says the program's goal is to decrease gang and youth violence.
In Chicago, the program is taught in the 3rd, 4th, 7th and 8th grade classrooms, by a uniformed police officer and federal agents. The program is designed for the G.R.E.A.T. instructor and the classroom teacher to work together to realize a common goal, saving children.
G.R.E.A.T. also conducts a summer component where the curriculum is mixed with life skills, self esteem building, sports and other social activities to reinforce the 9-week program. The 3rd and 4th grade program lasts 5 weeks, and the 7th and 8th grade program lasts 13 weeks.
