Pubdate: Thu, 01 Apr 2004 Source: News-Journal (Mansfield, OH) http://www.mansfieldnewsjournal.com/news/stories/20040401/localnews/187168.h tml Copyright: 2004 News-Journal. Contact: http://www.mansfieldnewsjournal.com/customerservice/contactus.html Website: http://www.mansfieldnewsjournal.com/ Details: http://www.mapinc.org/media/2413 Author: Norm Narvaja STUDENTS LEARN TO JUST SAY NO LEXINGTON -- Police Lt. Jeff Hoffer concluded his nine weeks of work with 214 fifth-graders at Eastern Elementary School on Wednesday by recognizing standout efforts from the eight classes he taught. "As police officers, we're used to dealing with kids and adults who are getting into trouble," Hoffer said. "This is my opportunity to experience good kids and good adults." Hoffer also finished the Lexington Local School District's Drug Abuse Resistance Education program by recognizing one essay from each class about the dangers of drug, alcohol and tobacco use, as well as one poster with a similar message. Hoffer said while reviewing the essays and posters, he realized the children understood what he had been teaching them. "Even though I only picked out one essay and poster from each class, if you go through life and especially junior and senior high school staying away from drugs and alcohol, you will all be winners," Hoffer said. This year's graduation marked 16 years of the program in Lexington and 14 years of Hoffer teaching it. Parents of the participating students said they thought the program was worthwhile. "I think it's effective and a good opportunity for children to learn the dangers of drugs," Vivian Cockley said. Her 11-year-old daughter, Katie Cockley, was recognized for her essay. She said she was surprised to learn there were many ways to say no to drugs. "I learned that cigarettes have over 200 known poisons," 11-year-old Taylor Thomas said. His mother, Debbie Thomas, said she was impressed by Hoffer's work as a teacher. "I liked his comment that as a parent, it's easy to explain the dangers of drugs but it's difficult when peers pressure you into using drugs," Thomas said. She said after hearing the essays, she is confident her son and the others are well-equipped to handle the future pressures to use drugs. Another mother, Kellie Ritchey, said the program has given her son, 11-year-old Tim Ritchey, good practical advice. Tim said he learned a lot, particularly about the effects of second-hand smoke, and was happy his essay was selected by Hoffer. "I feel glad," Tim said. "Officer Hoffer is a real cool guy, and I'm glad he picked it."