Students learn intervention strategies and peer education strategies to reduce intolerance and build an understanding of Maine Civil Rights Act in the entire school community. The CRTP attempts to create a structure within schools whereby teachers and students work together in a coordinated effort with state and local law enforcement to change the climate of intolerance and violence within schools. Equally important, the CRTP seeks to create alternative mechanisms through which students could alert someone of harassment before the harassment escalates to serious violence. The CRTP has grown from 18 schools in 1996 to more than 150 schools this year, including 6 elementary schools. There are nineteen schools currently on the waiting list.
Teams meet weekly or bi-weekly.
Teams projects include bulletin boards, assemblies, and surveys, to name just a few. The Department conducts regional trainings for students, as well as for faculty and community advisors. At these full day trainings, teams are grounded in the Civil Rights Act, develop team building and leadership skills, and learn more about civil rights and how they as a team can impact their school community. Students, faculty and community advisors are provided with a comprehensive training manual prepared by the Department. Civil Rights Teams from across the state come together for a one-day conference to share team successes and learn new skills.