Although the D.A.R.E. program was initially created by police officers to significantly reduce/eliminate the use of alcohol, tobacco, and other drugs by young people, the program was not as successful as officials had hoped. So with the help of scientists who understand the way students' minds work, the program was significantly changed. Now, the D.A.R.E.program helps students develop the skills to make better choices by using the acronym D (DEFINE the problem, challenge or opportunity), A (ASSESS - determine your choices), R (RESPOND - make choice using the facts you have gathered), and E (EVALUATE - review your decision and decide if you made a good choice).
The program is taught by the St. Ann Police Department primarily to 5th graders, however, after school classes using the D.A.R.E. program have been taught at Hoech Middle School.
The current D.A.R.E. method is not just beneficially to 5th grades, but could be applied to all age groups forced to make big decisions.
Below you are Officers J. Evans, T. Schmieg, and W. Luu, along with this year's Holy Trinity essay winner.
For more information about D.A.R.E. and the St. Ann Police Department, please all 314-427-8000 ext. 1271.