The Sycamore Township Board of Trustees are proud supporters of the D.A.R.E. program. The prevention of substance abuse among school-age children is a major concern in our community, as it is elsewhere in the nation.

D.A.R.E. (Drug Abuse Resistance Education) was developed by the Los Angeles Unified School District and the Los Angeles Police Department in an effort to stem the tide of substance abuse among our youth. Evaluations of the D.A.R.E. Program by the Evaluation and Training Institute and the National Institute of Justice indicate that students who receive D.A.R.E. show significantly less substance abuse, a sharp decrease in school vandalism and truancy, improved work habits, reduced tension between ethnic groups, reduced gang activity, a more positive attitude toward Police I and a better rapport with teachers and school officials.

Students receive lessons over a 17-week period taught by a specially trained uniformed Sheriffs Deputy. While at the schools, the Officer follows a strict curriculum outlined by D.A.R.E America and D.A.R.E. Ohio. Lessons focus on techniques for resisting peer pressure, making decisions, solving problems as well as general information about drugs as it relates to the program. Students are also challenged to consider healthy alternatives to drug use and to consider the consequences of their actions.

While in the schools, the D.A.R.E. Officer maintains his/her uniformed presence but does not solicit or investigate issues of a criminal nature that may arise while at school. During the actual class, the normal teacher for that class is always present.

The D.A.R.E Officer may conduct contests between students that encourage participation. An essay contest provides students with an opportunity to express in writing what they have learned in the program. A graduation is held for the presentation of certificates along with other recognition of involvement in the program.