D.A.R.E. & School Resources

The Drug Abuse Resistance Education Program (D.A.R.E.) began in 1983 in Los Angeles, California. D.A.R.E. is a 10-week series of classroom lessons, taught by a specially trained law enforcement officer. Fifth-grade students learn the skills needed to resist negative peer pressure and lead successful, drug-free, and violence-free lives. D.A.R.E. is now operating in 80% of our nation's school districts and in more than 44 countries around the world.

The Shelby County Sheriff's Office, in cooperation with the Shelby County Schools, began the D.A.R.E. program in 1989. Soon after, the Sidney Police Department also began its program in the Sidney schools. Today the Sheriff's Office continues the program in Anna, Botkins, Fairlawn, Ft. Loramie, Hardin-Houston, Jackson Center, and Russia Schools. Over 5,000 young people from the Shelby County Schools have graduated from the D.A.R.E. program since 1989.

Shelby County fifth graders learn about the consequences of drug use and are taught techniques to help resist peer pressure. The students are encouraged to develop good self-esteem and get involved in positive activities. Lessons about managing stress, resolving conflicts peacefully, and developing decision-making skills help our young people avoid situations that could lead to criminal activity or victimization. Each student will "TAKE A STAND" and make a personal commitment to avoid drugs and violence. At D.A.R.E. culmination the graduates are rewarded for their efforts with a certificate of achievement and a D.A.R.E. T-shirt.

If you know of a young person who has recently graduated from the D.A.R.E. program, please let them know how proud you are of their accomplishments. Encourage them to follow through with the commitment they made to themselves, their families, and their community to stay drug and violence-free.