Gang Free Schools - Is it Possible?

Gang-Free Schools and Communities Program

The Gang-Free Schools and Communities Program was launched in 2000 to address and reduce youth gang crime and violence in schools and communities throughout the nation. Four sites were selected (East Cleveland, OH; Houston, TX; Miami/Dade County, FL; and Pittsburgh, PA) through a competitive process to participate in the two phases of this program, which is a replication of the Office's Comprehensive Gang Model.


In phase 1, sites assembled steering committees and assessment teams drawing on the wide range of stakeholders in each community. Sites then assessed gang problems extensively by using multiple sources of information, including school and law enforcement records, community leaders, students, parents, teachers, and youth gang members. Applying their assessment findings, sites developed strategic plans for implementing OJJDP's Comprehensive Gang Model. Implementation plans included designs for gang prevention, intervention, and suppression at the community level, with an emphasis on school involvement.


In phase 2, sites are now implementing their strategic plans and delivering services and anti-gang activities in schools and across the communities. Specific activities vary across sites, but all sites follow the five broad strategies outlined in the Comprehensive Gang Model: community mobilization, social intervention (including street outreach efforts), opportunities for educational and vocational advancements, suppression, and organizational change.

The program I just described is headed up by the Office of Juvenile Justice and Delinquency Prevention.

I would like to get your thoughts on this program and whether or not you think it works, and if so, why or why not. It would be very interesting to see what suggestions we may be able to come up with.