Providing safe learning environments is essential for student achievement, prevention of dropouts, and for the overall physical and mental well being of the student, school, community, and parents.

The emergence of gangs in rural and urban schools over the past decade has increased and their members have changed in appearance.

East Garner and North Garner Middle Schools are working together to take proactive steps in educating parents and community members about the possible repercussions of gang membership in schools.

School representatives are working with local experts in order to develop strategies to minimize the influence of gangs within the schools and the community.

A presentation entitled Gangs 101: Promoting Prevention through Awareness will be held at the Garner Senior Center on Saturday, January 17, 2008 beginning at 9:00 am -11:00 am.

Funding is provided by Project Quest, a federal grant funded initiative which is a part of the Magnet Programs Department of the Wake County Public School System.

Representatives from both Garner middle schools will be available along with representatives from Wake County Gang Prevention Partnership. Parents of school age children and the public are invited to attend.