NEW WAYS OF SAYING 'NO'

RCMP Introduces DARE Program To Local Schools

Students at both Sparwood elementary schools have a new component in their
curriculum and a new instructor whose specialization is keeping children
safe by offering some street sense.

The DARE program, a drug and violence prevention program, was recently
introduced to children by RCMP Constable Wally Bursey as a joint venture
between local RCMP and administration of the two schools.

"It's showing them ways of saying no," Bursey told a group of parents in a
meeting about the program Jan. 16.

"It's not me standing up for 45 minutes giving them a lecture...They're
going to roll play and learn how to say no to each other."

The internationally-recognized prevention program targets children at an
age when they are most receptive to drug and violence prevention education.

And by selecting students who have yet to reach the age, they are less
likely to have experimented with tobacco, alcohol and other drugs has
proven to be successful, Bursey said.

"They need to have those skills (taught through DARE)," he continued while
outlining 17 weeks of intensive instruction students will receive.

The lessons, which are taught in a way to which young children can relate,
provide skills for recognizing and resisting social pressures to experiment
with drugs. It helps enhances self esteem, teaches positive alternatives
to substance abuse and other destructive behaviours and in particular gangs
and violence. As well, it develops skills in risk-assessment,
decision-making, conflict resolution and communication.

Each week the children will receive instruction, but Bursey said it does
not end with what is happening in the classroom. Parents are advised
through newsletters of the course component being taught each week.

Bursey added the program is about social acceptance and is designed to not
only educate children, but support parents who are encouraged to learn
about the program and talk with their children about it.

"The average age for first time use of tobacco is 10; the average time of
first time use with marijuana is 12," he told the group of parents.

"Sometimes we forget the obvious. If we avoid the issue, it's not going to
come up."

He added success depends on the partnership forged between parents,
schools, the RCMP and the children.

"Nobody fails because we're all working together as a team," Bursey said.

"It's all about team effort and all the kids work together. This whole
program is about pro-active, preventative approach."

Editor's note: Each week the Miner will follow the program curriculum as it
is taught to the children.