January 31, 2003

Lansing - In a special recognition ceremony held today at the Michigan State Police Training Academy, 34 state, county and local police officers received certification to teach personal safety lessons in schools across Michigan.

The officers are graduates of the Teaching, Educating and Mentoring (T.E.A.M.) School Liaison Project developed by the Michigan State Police Prevention Services Section. T.E.A.M. is a proactive effort to make schools and communities safer by promoting an understanding of social rules, the consequences of unlawful behavior and students’ responsibilities as good citizens. The State Police introduced the school liaison program in July 1998.

T.E.A.M. training allows officers to teach at any of the three levels of education—elementary, middle or high school—in Michigan schools.

The elementary school curriculum teaches students basic safety rules such as bicycle and pedestrian safety and the proper use of 911.

The middle school curriculum is designed to improve the citizenship skills of students and provide an understanding of rules and laws in society. It also teaches teens skills on how to recognize and be more aware of personal safety issues. The curriculum also exposes students to the cause and effect of violence and teaches how to constructively handle conflict.

The high school curriculum provides a realistic picture of the roles and responsibilities of law enforcement officers. It also educates students in the practical application of constitutional law and creates awareness regarding personal safety issues such as sexual harassment and bias-motivated violence (hate crimes). The high school curriculum also provides a realistic look at what causes young people to get angry and then provides them with the skills necessary to resolve conflicts and develop good problem solving skills.

Three newly developed modules, fire safety, gun safety and responsible safe Internet use have been added to the T.E.A.M. curriculum.

"It is very rewarding to see the dedication and commitment these officers have shown to bring the important safety messages of T.E.A.M. to the children," said First Lieutenant Jim Shaw, commander of the Michigan State Police Prevention Services Section. "The T.E.A.M. program is being actively presented in approximately 250 Michigan school districts. It is the continued partnerships of schools, parents, communities and law enforcement agencies which help promote safety for Michigan children."

By the fall of 2003, the total number of officers teaching T.E.A.M. in Michigan schools is expected to reach 300. Officers completing training today include:

Read more press releases from the Michigan State Police.