Twenty Carson Valley Middle School students participated last week in a graduation ceremony at Zephyr Cove from the Gang Resistance Education and Training program.
Douglas County Sheriff Ron Pierini officiated at the June 25 event.
Youth services officers Chris Griffith and Teresa Duffy taught the program designed to prevent youth crime and gang involvement.
Juvenile probation officers assisted with the class.
"GREAT is a cooperative effort between law enforcement, schools, parents and the community - all working together to help children make good life choices," Pierini said.
"The goal of the program is to prevent youth crime, violence, and gang involvement, while developing a positive relationship among our young people to create a safer community."
Pierini said the class focused on team building, decision making, goal setting and community service.
Graduates include Ariah Barth, Emma Brennecke, Codie Brixey, Ingrid Carlson, Chelsea Chambers, Holland Chambers, Hannah Coverley, Samantha Crawford, Allie Galloway, Shayla Gransbery, Serena Herup, Savannah Haase, Sydne Huck, Kalin Ingstad, Delaney Jacobson, Emily Lawrence, Jon Pelcher, Melissa Russell, Carissa Swan and Alexis VonSchottenstein
"The Douglas County Sheriff's Office is focused on combating gang activity in and out of our community," Pierini said. "The GREAT program is a vital tool in that effort."
