Pubdate: Mon, 14 Mar 2005
Source: Clipper Weekly, The (CN MB)
Copyright: 2005 The Clipper Weekly.
Contact:  http://www.clipper.mb.ca/
Details: http://www.mapinc.org/media/2370
Bookmark: http://www.mapinc.org/dare.htm (D.A.R.E.)
Bookmark: http://www.mapinc.org/youth.htm (Youth)
Note: MAP archives articles exactly as published, except that our editors 
may redact the names and addresses of accused persons/others.

DUGALD'S DARE PROGRAM

A graduation of sorts took place at the Ecole Dugald School on Wednesday, 
March 9th as students participating in the D.A.R.E. program (Drug Abuse 
Resistance Education) graduated amongst their peers, parents and some 
fellow students.

Constable Rosanne T. Ross, from the Oakbank RCMP Detachment, acknowledged 
and presented these Grade 6 students with their awards and certificates.

The D.A.R.E. (Drug Abuse Resistance Education) program is in its third year 
in Springfield, teaching students how to live productive drug and violence 
free lives. The program is targeted at eleven and twelve year olds, and 
goes beyond the traditional drug abuse and violence prevention programs. It 
gives children the skills needed to recognize and resist the subtle and 
overt pressures that cause them to experiment with drugs or become involved 
in gangs or violent activities.

Each student had to write an essay on why they wanted to be drug/violence 
free. Although, each submission was very well written, and much thought and 
effort put forth, four students were given the opportunity to read their 
essay's aloud that morning. Gerard Desorcy, Joel Schreyer, Nicolas Speer 
and Caitlyn Stevens shared with the audience their feelings and thoughts 
regarding the program and its content.

"Constable Ross came to our school to talk to the two grade 6 classes about 
drugs and violence. She told us stories about people who were under 
pressure about doing drugs and have refused to do them. She has taught us a 
lot," Joel Schreyer read from his essay.

"In D.A.R.E. we practised refusal in all sorts of situations. We are 
mentally prepared if we are asked," said Schreyer.

Following these readings, certificate presentations were made and closing 
remarks shared. Students, parents and teachers were then allowed to enjoy 
some light refreshments before heading back to class.

This program would not exist today if it weren't for the dedicated sponsors 
of the program. Many thanks are extended to everyone who contributed in any 
way to the success of this program.

"It's fun to be here, our learning is fun and we do a lot of role-playing 
together," shared Ross during the ceremony.

Receiving their certificates were students from both Mrs. P. Kavanagh and 
Madame S. St. Pierre's grade 6 classes. They were: [Student names redacted].