Our D.A.R.E. program has come to an end for our 5th graders and we are so proud of their accomplishments throughout the year. Officer Shepard leads this program for us here at Rock Creek Elementary and within several other elementary schools within the Fort Zumwalt District.
Throughout this program, some of the things that students learn are how to say no to peer pressure, conflict resolution, decision making,stressors, communication skills, and they learn about the different types of drugs and the effects that these drugs/alcohol can have on your body
Officer Shepard’s favorite thing about the DARE program is that he gets to build personal relationships with the students, families, and community members. Officer Shepard shared that at first, students are hesitant to participate but by the end of the program, they view him as a friend that they can go to for support and to ask questions. This program gives officers and students the ability to foster a positive relationship by being proactive and helping the youth of our schools to build positive decision-making skills.
When asking Officer Shepard why he felt the program was so important, he stated that the answer could be found through the results. The program is concluded when each student researches, writes, and presents an essay standing in front of all of their peers. When presented with the idea, the students often feel as if the task is too large or they possess fear that they won’t be able to do it. However, by the conclusion of the course, students have developed proficiency in the areas such as stress management, confident speaking, body language, and resistance strategies to peer pressure and present their essays with courage to the other students. He stated that seeing the growth development in just a short period of time is truly inspiring to see in the students.
Although our official “lessons” have concluded at Rock Creek Elementary, we are so privileged to have Officer Bryan as a part of our community throughout the year. The students love talking with him and building a relationship with him and he can often be found in our lunch room, after school events, and visiting the students. Congrats to Officer Bryan and all of our 5th Grade D.A.R.E graduates from Rock Creek!
5th Grade teachers and Administrators with our D.A.R.E Graduates!