BEDFORD-STUYVESANT — Brooklyn high school students will present their talents and collaborative work with NYPD officers in an anti-violence talent show this week.
“My School Has Rhythm, Not Violence,” a program from the NYPD’s School Safety Division, educates teens on ways to reduce confrontation and conflict.
The initiative has been implemented across the five boroughs and continues at four campuses in Brooklyn this month, according to Assistant Chief Brian Conroy, commanding officer for the agency’s school safety division.
Violent incidents at schools at the Grand Street campus in Williamsburg prompted a focus on the area, Conroy added. Participating campuses include Paul Robeson, Franklin K. Lane and Prospect Heights.
Leading up to this week’s talent show, a total of 200 students from 13 schools participated in classroom instruction to learn lessons on peer pressure, law and conflict resolution.
Groups from select schools worked with officers to come up with original beats, lyrics and dance routines to promote positivity and anti-violence.
“It’s a great opportunity to interact with the kids to really get to know them, and agents are really establishing a bond,” Conroy said. “Music breaks down a barrier between the police officers and students, and it’s been tremendous so far.”
Up to 40 students will participate in the finale showcase at Bed-Stuy’s Boys and Girls High School this Friday. Teens will compete for a variety of different prizes, including a spot on local radio station 103.9.
Officers hope connections with the students will help break any stereotypes they may have concerning the NYPD and help them “see beyond the scope of their neighborhoods,” officials said.
“It’s one piece of community outreach that we’re trying to do,” Conroy added. “It’s not going to solve everything, but it’s one way to build positive relationships.”
“My School Has Rhythm, Not Violence,” is a free event and begins at 6 p.m., Friday, at Boys and Girls High School, 1700 Fulton St.
