A LIFE-CHANGER

Reading about the report on DARE surprised me, because I disagree
entirely. Learning about the dangers of drugs, violence, peer
pressure, etc., has changed my life. Being able to honestly say that I
won't abuse drugs will help me to live a healthy life, focus on what's
important, and set a good example for others. So many people don't get
the privilege of DARE in their schools, and I feel lucky to spend an
hour or two each week realizing who I really am, and the things you
should know before graduating from elementary school.

I don't believe that a school's interest in DARE and wanting that to
be a part of the fifth grade is "ignorance."

Many kids in my class alone have their own stories of friends, family
and others who have been exposed to drugs and how this program has
made them take a different perspective about smoking, drinking and the
people in their lives. I thank all those who teach DARE, and I will
never share the thought that DARE is a bad program.

MOLLY BERGESON
Raleigh