Frank P. Long Intermediate School students have completed a six-week federal program named Gang Resistance Education and Training, taught by the Suffolk County Sheriff’s Department. 
During the workshops, fourth graders learned about anger management, good decision-making, how to become part of the community, communication skills, bullying prevention and being a good citizen. The program is also designed to promote a positive relationship between law enforcement and community youth.  
“Remember that outcomes are the result of your decision,” Deputy Sheriff Brian McCrave told the students. “Make good decisions that come with great outcomes and remember that you have to think before making a decision.” 
As a culminating activity, Deputy Sheriffs Steve Calvo and Kevin Tracy demonstrated how their canine detectives locate drugs, and track criminals by utilizing their keen sense of smell. Calvo and Tracy explained that a dog’s nose receptors are 100 times more powerful than any human. They also explained that the dogs are part of their families and the dogs’ number one priority is to please their handler, creating a special bond with the sheriffs. The students also witnessed how both dogs were able to detect marijuana in a planted carry case and follow other commands.
After the assembly, each fourth grade student received a certificate for having completed the G.R.E.A.T. program