Safety Topics

Saying NO to Gangs, Violence & Prejudice
“Alarm Bell”

Suggested Grade Levels

3, 4, 5 and 6

Overview

This program cautions students about the dangers of gang involvement. It features sixteen-year-old John Sanchez, a former neighborhood gang member, who tells his story through flashbacks, visual demonstrations and lively, upbeat dialogue.

Script Scenario

John is overwhelmed and frustrated that his co-worker, Joanne Spinoza, is late for work. When Joanne explains that she is late because she overslept as a result of attending a party with a gang member, John tells her about his dangerous brush with gang involvement and why he would never again join a gang.

Objectives

• Warn about the negative consequences of gang involvement.
• Stress that gang involvement masked as friendship is dangerous and undermines individuality and personal choice.
• Show effective ways to deal with peer pressure.

Format

This 30-minute program consists of a scripted-story puppet presentation, followed by a guided question and answer session. During the Q & A time, the puppets reinforce learning objectives and encourage children to share their questions and concerns. To extend learning and repeat key lessons, all children receive a take-home Kids on the Block bookmark imprinted with the program’s messages, and they are encouraged to write letters or emails to the puppets.

To help Kids on the Block improve our programs, teachers are asked to complete a short program evaluation form.

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