Q.  What does stand for?

A. Drug Abuse Resistance Education.

Q. What is ?

A.  It is more than just saying "no".  It's a scientifically tested curriculum for developing life skills.  It teaches children about peer pressure, consequences of choosing to use and not use drugs, other influences such as the media, positive alternatives, self-esteem, resolving conflicts and avoiding violence.

Q.  How did begin?

A.  It started in 1983 in Los Angeles, California with its school district and police department.  The pilot program was implemented with ten officers.  Since then it has been expanded through the U.S. and over forty-four foreign countries.

Q.  Why do police officers teach the curriculum? 

A.  Though educators are very capable of teaching the curriculum, reasoning stands that children will benefit from an officer that has job related experiences with those who abuse drugs.

Q.  Why do children go through a "graduation"?

A.  The children have worked hard during the sixteen weeks and the ceremony helps to reinforce everything they have learned, including their commitment to be drug-free.

Q.  Is changing?

A.  Yes.  This curriculum is like many other teaching tools in the learning field.  Like many of the text books in its fourth or higher edition, the D.A.R.E. curriculum is being revised to offer the best to our children.

Q.  What are some of the changes?

A.  That cannot be completely answered at this time do to current piloting of the revised curriculum.  However, it appears that the elementary program will be shortened to about 10 weeks, matching the middle and high school programs.  This will allow some departments to maintain or expand their programs without straining its resources.

If you have a question about the Ashland Police Division's D.A.R.E. program, please send it to our e-mail or snail mail address on the home page.