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D.A.R.E.

D.A.R.E. (Drug Abuse Resistance Education) is a collaborative effort in the classroom to prevent or reduce drug abuse and violence among children and youth.

D.A.R.E. (Drug Abuse Resistance Education) is a collaborative effort by DARE certified law enforcement officers, educators, students, parents and community to offer an educational program in the classroom to prevent or reduce drug abuse and violence among children and youth.

The D.A.R.E. program offers preventative strategies to enhance those protective factors which appear to foster the development of resiliency in young people who may be at risk for substance abuse or other problem behaviors. These strategies focus on the development of social competence, communication skills, self-esteem, empathy, decision-making, conflict resolution, sense of purpose and independence, and positive alternative activities to drug abuse and other destructive behaviors.

D.A.R.E offers a variety of interactive, group-participation, cooperative-learning activities which are designed to encourage students to solve problems of major importance in their lives. An important element of DARE is the use of student leaders who do not use drugs as positive role models in influencing younger students.

The Jefferson County Sheriff's Department currently has five certified D.A.R.E. instructors teaching in seven local elementary & middle schools throughout Jefferson County. The D.A.R.E. program teaches:

  • The dangers of drugs and a strong "No Use" message.
  • How to resist peer pressure to experiment with drugs.
  • Consequences of being involved with drugs and violence.
  • How positive alternatives can lead to a more productive future.
  • Valuable life skills on how to say "No".

The D.A.R.E. program uses:

  • Certified police officers as instructors and resource people.
  • Police officers who are highly credible individuals.
  • Officers who have dealt directly with affected lives and crimes caused by substance abuse.

The success of the D.A.R.E. program:

  • Goes far beyond substance abuse prevention.
  • Has contributed to improved study habits and grades.
  • Decreased vandalism and gang activity.
  • Has created greater respect for law enforcement officials.
  • Has increased self-respect and self-esteem by students who have participated in the program.

Additional D.A.R.E. components:

  • Culmination assembly for successful D.A.R.E. graduates.
  • Visitation program for lower elementary school grades. DARE PHOTOS Sheriff Department Home