As much as they might want to, parents cannot shield their children from all the
bad things that exist in the world. An integral part of growing up involves learning
lessons by living through negative events that happen to ourselves or those close
to us. “Live and learn” is a universal phrase that sums up the direct relationship
between choices and consequences. While poor choices often lead to negative
outcomes, we are usually provided with the opportunity to learn from our mistakes
and make better decisions going forward. Unfortunately, this is not always the
case, especially when it comes to mistakes made with the consumption of drugs
and alcohol. Sometimes, a poor decision ends up being one’s last decision.
With this in mind, Clarkstown is a proud participant in a wonderful program taught
in our schools providing 5th grade students with important tools and resources to
help them make responsible choices regarding drugs, alcohol, and tobacco. The
program is known as D.A.R.E., which stands for define, assess, respond, and
evaluate. D.A.R.E. has been offered in the town for over 30 years and the
Clarkstown Police Department was the first law enforcement agency to present
the program in Rockland County. The curriculum runs for 12 weeks and students
are provided information and facts from a Clarkstown Police officer and also
covers other important topics such as bullying and peer pressure. While the
D.A.R.E. program started before the widespread accessibility to the internet and
social media, the curriculum has evolved through the years to cover this new
reality as well as new areas and topics pertinent to today’s ‘tweens.’
Through D.A.R.E., children learn strategies on how to avoid situations they will
face as they mature into middle school and high school students. For example,
they learn multiple ways to ‘just say no’ to others who are offering drugs or alcohol
to them. It is perhaps one of the most important programs that we provide, as it
gives strategies on how to live a healthy and safe life. It also gives students the
opportunity to establish a positive relationship with the Clarkstown Police
Department. The program ends with a graduation ceremony that recognizes the
efforts of the students’ participation and encourages them to remain
drug–free.Over 30,000 students have been educated through D.A.R.E. since its
inception in 1991. The program also sponsors several extracurricular activities,
including 3-on-3 basketball tournaments and street hockey tournaments to
promote positive activities for students.
I’m so grateful for our partnership with all four of the school districts and parochial
schools within the Town of Clarkstown which participate in the D.A.R.E. program.
I’m thankful for the exceptional work of our D.A.R.E. officers in the Clarkstown
Police Department for teaching our young people for so many years. And as
Town Supervisor, I remain committed to continuing to fund and promote this very
valuable program that assists our youth in dealing with the challenges they face
on the path to adulthood. The disease of drug addiction is incredibly powerful and
we must do all we can to educate and support young people so they will live long
and healthy lives.
If you or a family member is struggling with substance abuse issues, please
remember there is plenty of help available. Another local program known as ‘Hope
Not Handcuffs’ offers a collaborative effort between law enforcement and
community organizations to find viable treatment options for individuals seeking
help to reduce their dependence on prescription medication, alcohol, heroin, or
other drugs.
Call 833-428-HOPE or visit
https://www.tricountycommunitypartnership.org/hopenothandcuffs for more
information.
