DON'T CUT THE D.A.R.E. PROGRAM

I have heard that the city of Springfield's budget proposal is going
to cut the DARE drug prevention program in Springfield Schools. I am a
sixth-grader at Agnes Stewart Middle School and a 2003 DARE graduate.
I would like to request that the city manager, city councilors and
Budget Committee reconsider this budget cut.

I have heard some people say that DARE might not be effective in
prevention of teen drug use. However, I think it has been effective
for me and my friends. I also believe that one of the most important
reasons that DARE should continue is that it allows kids to get to
know police officers on the school campus. Having a friend on the
police force gives kids someone that they can call if they are being
bullied, harassed, talked to about drug use or if they know that
someone is carrying a weapon.

I think that the DARE program covers much more than just saying no to
drugs. I would like you to join me in asking Springfield to reinstate
DARE.

Zachary Leiken

Springfield