DARE DOES HAVE VALUE

I agree with many of the points brought forth by Mr. Easton in his letter
concerning the DARE program that was published in your paper dated Mar. 19.
However, I feel the need to address some issues that were not raised. Yes,
it has been shown that the DARE program may not deter children form
experimenting with drugs, but that is really only a small portion of what
the program is teaching.

The DARE program addresses the areas of teasing, bullying, dealing with
stress and problems, resolving disagreements as well as how to handle the
issue of drugs. I agree completely the issue of drugs should be handled by
parents. In my opinion it should be talked about at an early age and
continually reinforced. Parents need to begin early with a foundation of
openness and understanding with their children.

But all too often a child is not taught how to resolve a disagreement, deal
with stress of handle continual teasing. The program gives them the basis
for those life skills. When adults become involved more often than not, a
disagreement between children becomes nothing more than a blame game. One
child is punished, yet neither are taught how to handle the situation
themselves. Or there is the fact that an 11 or 12-year-old can feel a
substantial amount of stress. Compared to the pressures of being an adult,
the pressure they are feeling is often overlooked. Students are taught how
to handle themselves in many uncomfortable situations, not just in those
that involve drugs.

The DARE program and what it teaches are a worthwhile endeavor. I think it
is insulting to the police officers, teachers, parents and most
importantly, the students involved to liken it's value to a basketball or
two. If one child on the playground who is teased every day of their life,
finally finds the courage to speak up, or if the perceived "bad" child of
the class is more understood by their classmates because they can begin to
comprehend the stress that he or she lives under, then in my opinion, the
difference is either of those children's lives is worth more than any
basketball in this world. Let's not underestimate the value of a child with
respect for themselves and others.

- -Deborah Bystrowski Fort Saskatchewan, AB