THANKS FOR THE HELP WITH D.A.R.E. PROGRAM EVENT

Children are blessed with unlimited potential. Unfortunately, every year,
hundreds of youth destroy their goals and dreams by using illegal drugs and
engaging in violence and destructive behavior.

The Drug Abuse Resistance Education program in Stafford County provides
fifth-grade students with the tools they need to effectively resist the
pressure to use tobacco, alcohol, and marijuana.

Students also form strong friendships with people who will act as their
network of support as they navigate the challenging adolescent years.

A highlight for Stafford County students is D.A.R.E. Day. On June 1, a
couple of thousand students and hundreds of parents and teachers descended
on Pratt Park for the fourth annual event.

It was a celebration of the commitment to resist drugs and violence and
also an opportunity for students to try their hand at a wide variety of
interesting hobbies and career choices.

The event gave students an opportunity to connect with members of our armed
forces and professionals from our community. Many students say it's the
most memorable event of their fifth-grade year.

We'd like to thank Sheriff Charles Jett and school Superintendent Jean
Murray for their strong support of the D.A.R.E. program.

Thanks, too, to the teachers, parents, and businesses who assisted in
making the event possible.

Rebecca Childress

Grace Hynden

Stafford

Rebecca Childress is a deputy with the Stafford County Sheriff's Office and
a D.A.R.E. instructor. Grace Hynden is a fifth-grade teacher at Winding
Creek Elementary School.