Roanoke schools strengthen resilience against drugs and bullying with D.A.R.E program
Roanoke, Virginia – As students return to the classroom, issues surrounding drug abuse and peer pressure remain pertinent concerns for parents.
The D.A.R.E. program, an acronym for Drug Abuse Resistance Education, is being introduced in certain educational institutions, including those in Roanoke City. The initiative is designed to enlighten students about the potential dangers of drug consumption.
Local law enforcement professionals spearhead this program, with a primary focus on students transitioning into the 6th grade.
Given the increased availability of vaping devices and a noted rise in bullying incidents, the central aim of the program is to equip students with skills to effectively address and navigate these challenges.
Sgt. Brandi Lazare from the Roanoke City Sheriff’s Office elaborated on the program’s objectives: “We not only talk about the importance to stay away from drugs and alcohol and how it gets misused, but we also discuss essential topics like sound decision-making, peer pressure, bullying, and other key areas vital for nurturing students into responsible community members.”
Additionally, in response to the opioid crisis, D.A.R.E. America has introduced a dedicated opioid session, which the department is incorporating into the standard D.A.R.E. curriculum.
