D.A.R.E. Program

The Vernon Police Department implemented the Drug Abuse Resistance Education (D.A.R.E.) Program at the Vernon City Elementary School since 1999. The program consists of 10 weekly lessons that include lectures, discussion, cooperative learning group activities, role-playing, classwork, homework and the introduction of role models. Students are taught to recognize various drugs and other harmful substances. They learn about the effects of these substances on themselves, family and community. Personal worth is reinforced and they are taught the skills which can help them to avoid involvement with drugs in the future. The idea is to educate them prior to the opportunity for drug involvement.

The program was very well received. The D.A.R.E. officer and a program administrator work closely with the staff at the Vernon City Elementary School to coordinate the presentation of the D.A.R.E. curriculum to all 5th grade students. D.A.R.E. graduates are recognized at a graduation ceremony attended by the Chief of Police and other community representatives.

The D.A.R.E. officers also visit with the children in grades kindergarten through 5th grade, presenting information on a variety of child safety topics. This contact helps to create positive relationships between law enforcement and the children while building interest and enthusiasm for participating in the D.A.R.E. program when they get older.