LAKEPORT – With pride of accomplishment, demonstration of newfound skills and the honor of recognition, more than 200 students graduated from the Drug Abuse Resistance Education (DARE) program on Wednesday, May 5, at Terrace Middle School in Lakeport.

The students took part in the graduation ceremony in front of an auditorium filled with family and friends.

“This program has given the students the ability to make better choices,” explained Vice Principal Andy Goodwin about the intensive program.

Participation in DARE also demonstrated the students’ commitment, Goodwin said, as participation in the nine-week program took them away from their free time.

Taught by Lakeport Police Department’s School Resource Officer Stephanie Green, the curriculum covered resisting peer pressure, drug abuse resistance, healthy relationships and confidence in making healthy choices.

Prior to completing the program, all students were required to complete a report reflecting what they learned from the DARE program and how it affects their personal decision-making, according to a Lakeport Police statement.

The fifth and sixth graders also performed several skits that highlighted the lessons learned in the program – from resisting peer pressure, to making healthy life choices.

“It’s not just about drugs,” explained Green. “It’s about choices in life. All choices.”

Lakeport Police Chief Kevin Burke reminded the students that, as they go through life, they should give back to their communities by being positive role models. He reminded them that they can only control themselves – and the choices that they make.

Founded in Los Angeles in 1983, DARE is now an international program used throughout the United States and in more than 40 countries worldwide. It's designed to educate children about resisting drugs, gangs and violence.

The graduation ceremony was presented by the Lakeport Police Department in conjunction with the Lakeport Unified School District.

For more information about the D.A.R.E. program, visit www.dare.com.

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