Pubdate: Fri, 29 Sep 2006 Source: Sun St. Kitts and Nevis (Antigua) Copyright: 2006 SUN Printing & Publishing LTD Contact: http://sunstkitts.com/ Details: http://www.mapinc.org/media/4295 COP UNDERSCORES DARE TEACHER'S ROLE IN FIGHT AGAINST DRUGS AND CRIME While the battle against rise in drugs and crime in the Federation of St. Kitts/Nevis does not rest solely on the shoulders of DARE (Drug Awareness Resistance Education) teachers, their role in the fight has been described as a paramount one. During the opening ceremony of the Caribbean DARE Officers Training Workshop on Monday, Acting Commissioner of Police, Meredith Charles, in speaking to existing and prospective DARE officers explained that if the DARE programme is to be successful, DARE teachers/DARE officers must exhibit commitment. "DARE teachers, your commitment and interest are of optimum importance for the sustainability and success of the programme. Do not take the training for granted and deem it as another course added to your routine training. I implore you to take the job seriously and dedicate your services not only during your normal working hours but every, and anytime it becomes necessary to do so." The Charles further explained that DARE teachers must prove themselves to be good examples to their students. This, he said, will contribute to the success of the DARE programme which would equate to a reduction in the drug related crimes in the Federation. "A DARE teacher must have the capacity and skills to foster, counsel, guide and be a good example to his or her students. A DARE teacher must not only demonstrate interest in the students who are at school but away from school as well. The student must be told explicitly that if they are expected to function normally, they must avoid use of dangerous drugs at all cost. Especially when these drugs are not prescribed. No one should put anything which is harmful or known to be harmful into their bodies." "We in St. Kitts/Nevis are better off today because of the DARE programme," Charles said continuing that, "the lives of so many children have been transformed for the better. ... All those who will be benefiting from this training must realise the skills and knowledge procured to the advantage of each child in the various schools and the community at large." - --- MAP posted-by: Elaine