Pubdate: Wed, 14 Feb 2007
Source: Nipawin Journal, The (CN SN)
Copyright: 2007 The Nipawin Journal
Contact:  http://www.nipawinjournal.com/
Details: http://www.mapinc.org/media/867
Author: Moe Brondum

GOOD RIDDANCE TO DARE

The availability of illicit drugs in Saskatchewan schools and
communities is staggering.

As a parent of four great kids, I applaud the Elks for their concern
and attempts to do something about it, but the problem needs to be
taken more seriously. Unfortunately, abstention based programs like
DARE have been completely unsuccessful.

Drug use among school aged children has steadily increased over the
last 25 years - the same 25 years that DARE has been around. This
inability to have even the slightest impact has caused DARE to lose
credibility with parents, educators and law enforcement officials
across North America.

We send trained firefighters to deal with fires, police to deal with
crime. Why are we not using trained, professional educators to teach?
It will be hard to convince younger generations to help perpetuate the
lies and misinformation that DARE promotes. The Elks would do better
to promote a program based on facts that is taught by qualified
professionals.

MOE BRONDUM

Saskatchewan Marijuana Party

North Battleford, Sask 
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MAP posted-by: Steve Heath