Pubdate: Mon, 20 Jun 2005 Source: North Thompson Star/Journal (CN BC) Copyright: 2005 The North Thompson Star/Journal Contact: http://www.starjournal.net/ Details: http://www.mapinc.org/media/1231 Author: June Webb Bookmark: http://www.mapinc.org/dare.htm (D.A.R.E.) Bookmark: http://www.mapinc.org/youth.htm (Youth) D.A.R.E. KIDS TAKE THE PLEDGE A graphic skit was performed by grade five students as part of the D.A.R.E. graduation ceremonies last Wednesday at Barriere Elementary School. With no words spoken, it drove home the harsh fact that no child is risk-free. Drugs can affect anyone, rich or poor, of any race, anytime." stated Constable Dean Gladue, the RCMP Drug Awareness Coordinator for the Kamloops region. Gladue joined local RCMP officers Corp. Mike Mucha, Cst. Chad Purdy, and D.A.R.E. instructor, Cst. Diana Schaap as they presented certificates and shook the hands of each and every graduate who made a pledge to stay safe, drug and violence free. D.A.R.E. is an acronym for Drug Abuse Resistance Education" and over a course of 10 weeks, Schaap commuted between both Barriere and the Neqweyqwelsten Elementary Schools teaching 11 year olds to Define-Assess-Respond-Evaluate. We must protect our children." Gladue was adamant, People talk about protecting the environment, the water, the trees, which is important, but our children will be the leaders of the future." Gladue stressed it is crucial to get the message out before the critical years of 13 to 16. The evening also showcased a skit performed by the Chu Chua students on the dangers of succumbing to peer pressure and smoking. Every student wrote a Personal Commitment Essay and five were presented to the audience by Montana Gottfriedson, Justin Makowichuk, Rae-Lee Fraser, Dustin Machny and Mason Mosdell. Congratulations," said Mucha, Now go home and educate your parents. You did a good job." Children, he claims, are getting their education from the playground and are full of false information. D.A.R.E. provides a platform for a solid base knowledge as well as providing R.C.M.P. the chance to interact with students in a positive environment.