One hundred and sixty one students will sign a pledge committing to be drug free, gang free, and to abstain from bullying Dec. 18 after completing a six week program by the Prince George’s County Department of Corrections.
“The COPES program is a valuable part of our mission to help students become college and career ready," program head Gloria McCoy said. "The guidance lessons that are taught by volunteers from the Prince George’s County Department of Corrections help to build the capacity of our students to make good decisions and avoid peer pressure. We are very fortunate to have such a committed community partner.”
The students have participated in weekly sessions called C.O.P.E.S. (Correctional Officers Protecting and Educating Students) learning to use effective communication skills when approached to sell or use drugs, join gangs, and how to steer clear from bullying, according to a news release about the program.
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The C.O.P.E.S. program started in 2005 at Glenridge Elementary School and the six week schedule the officers follow focuses heavily on how drugs, gangs, peer pressure, and bullying can lead to an unsuccessful and unproductive life.
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