CITY COUNCIL SHOULDN'T CUT DARE PROGRAM

Education comes in many forms for our students. We learn through our
interactions at home and with others, academics and programs that not only
give information, but also foster an ongoing relationship between the
educator and the student. We have recently witnessed the latter of this
educational experience through the graduation of our fifth-graders from the
DARE program.

The DARE program is operated by our city's police department, and is funded
by contributions from various organizations throughout the community, DARE,
Drug Abuse Resistance Education, not only teaches our students about the
dangers and harmful effects of a variety of substances, but fosters a
positive relationship between the students, their parents and the DARE
officer. Officer Michele Reff always does an outstanding job in teaching
our students as well as building relationships with many of them. Because
of her involvement in our school, her wisdom and authority have been
utilized in guiding students and parents (past and present) through
difficult circumstances. Officer Reff has a genuine love and concern for
our students.

Due to the financial crisis that our city finds itself in, the DARE program
is now at risk for being cut from the police department's budget. The
financial resources are available for this program to continue, but the
patrol power of our police force has been reduced by two
positions. Officer Reff is needed back on patrol.

I am saddened and concerned about the impact resulting from removing
Officer Reff from this role as DARE officer. Officer Reff is providing a
pro-active stance to reducing substance abuse and crime, rather than a
reactive stance.

Whenever the input and output of financial resources do not match,
reductions need to be made. However, I hope that we do not cut programs
that have proved within our community to have had such a positive effect on
our students and parents.

Watertown NY

Cheryl A. Nebel President, Wiley Elementary School Parent-Teacher Organization