DARE
The Drug Abuse Resistance Education (DARE) program was originally established in Los Angeles, California in 1983. DARE began in Elmhurst in 1987 as a pilot program in Illinois.Over the years it has grown to a curriculum that is now taught to all fifth grade students in Elmhurst School District 205, as well as several private Elmhurst schools. DARE has gone through several updates, the most recent in 2003. DARE continues to be one of the most popular and recognizable programs presented in Elmhurst Schools.ObjectivesThe primary objective of DARE is to significantly reduce and eliminate young people’s use of alcohol, tobacco, and other drugs by focusing on decision-making skills. The information, principles, and skills within each DARE lesson are presented by certified DARE officers. The lessons are designed to build students capacities to solve difficult personal and social problems related to substance abuse. This is accomplished through cooperative learning activities, role-playing, and interviews of high school student role models. Internet safety lessons are also included in the program.
DARE in ElmhurstCurrently, the Elmhurst Police Department has seven certified DARE officers who spend one day each week for 12 weeks during the school year at their designated school presenting the lessons. They build relationships with the students by spending time with them at lunch and recess. The program concludes with a graduation ceremony that parents and family are encouraged to attend. Students receive certificates and Elmhurst DARE t-shirts in recognition of their participation and achievement in the program.
For more information, call the Elmhurst Police Department at (630) 530-3050.
