Very Effective People (V.E.P.) is a program provided for students in Grade 6 in both public and separate schools.

Educators and police officers team up to discuss topics with students such as creating impressions, put-downs, being mislead, refusal skills, self-esteem, problem solving, setting standards, choosing friends, drugs and alcohol, healthy lifestyles, responsibility, authority, vandalism and stealing.

The program includes role play in the classroom, and watching video tapes that address problem solving. Two field trips to Brockville Police Headquarters and to the Brockville General Hospital are arranged. Students complete homework assignments, and are encouraged to behave properly in the classroom and in the community.

There are five crucial ingredients for a successful V.E.P. program:

• An enthusiastic, competent educator with the ability to communicate effectively with the students and the parents
• A caring police officer willing to be an active participant in a team teaching situation
• A supportive and informed school and police staff that recognize the importance of such a program.
• Parents who are willing to contribute to the success of the program through involvement and encouragement at home
• A community that functions as a resource centre, welcoming the chance to share their various areas of expertise with the program participants

Upon successful completion of the program, students receive a diploma and a V.E.P. T-shirt. This graduation is attended by parents, students, principals, police officers and the police chief.

The Brockville Police Service has found that this program assists in the development of children's self respect and self esteem. Graduating students have learned many skills to assist them in coping with peer pressure and in making healthy choices.

For more information on V.E.P. and other community safety programs, contact Sergeant Doug Locke at (613) 342-0127 Ext. 4228 or by e-mail at dlocke@brockvillepolice.com