TEACHING YOUTH TO BE STRONG

More and more students are daring to stand up and make a difference, and
that strength to be strong can be attributed to the training of Constable
Tricia Etienne and her D.A.R.E program.

Etienne who recently returned from a trip to the United States where she
was one of four Saskatchewan members to complete the D.A.R.E. Mentor
Officer Training Course, is enthusiastic about the program.

"This really is one of the best parts of my job," stated Etienne. "I get to
come out to schools and work with youth on such important topics."

The D.A.R.E program teaches the youth how to cope with certain situations
and various pressures.

"It's basically an anti-drug and anti-violence program," explained Etienne.
"They learn how to deal with stress, peer pressure, as well as how to be
strong and say 'no'."

Etienne's dedication to the program has now gone one step farther with the
completion of the additional training.

"Now I am part of a four member training team in Saskatchewan who will
teach the course to other members," she explained. "It is a very
comprehensive course which takes a lot of commitment."

In order to be selected for the training which Etienne took in
Pennsylvania, Baltimore and New York City, she had to show she was
committed to the program.

"I am committed to doing this and although it takes up a lot of my own time
it is an extremely rewarding experience," she stated.

Etienne's D.A.R.E class at Yorkdale Central School is currently being
taught to the grade six students and their teacher Pat Hansen, strongly
believes it is a benefit to all involved.

"It really helps them to learn about the pressures that are surrounding
them," said Hansen. "At this age their social circles are getting bigger
and involving others from outside their immediate surroundings."

The students are currently learning how to interpret messages which are
being sent out through advertisements, and the difference between a
commercial and a Public Service Announcement (PSA). "Remember a PSA is
teaching you a lesson, where as a commercial is just trying to sell you
something," Etienne told the class. "You have to look at those messages and
be critical ... judge it for what it's worth."

As the students learn about what messages are being sent out through ads
for products such as beer, the teachers are hopeful it will help them with
their judgement in the future.

"It's all about bringing awareness so they can make positive choices," said
Hansen. "This allows them to receive the information they need to do that."

Etienne has now been teaching the program for four years, and she is
pleased with how it has been received.

"There are benefits that are already evident, although it is difficult to
measure exactly how much," noted Etienne. "Even if one student has using
the tools they are taught through this program to save themselves from
getting involved in a bad situation, it is all worth it."

Another positive aspect the teachers feel the program brings is the
connection the students are making with police officers.

"By coming into the classroom and interacting closely with them it shows
that we are approachable," said Etienne. "I think that is important for
them to realize."

Hansen agrees. "They respond well to her and it shows them they can
establish a relationship with someone in law enforcement," noted Hansen.
"They are enjoying having her here."

Etienne will continue to teach the program in Yorkton and in addition she
will head out to train other members the comprehensive course.

"It's going to be busy, but I really don't mind because it's all worth it."