D.A.R.E. GRADUATION FILLS GYMNASIUM

A gathering of 186 Grade 6 students from seven West Parry Sound schools
helped to fill the large gymnasium at Parry Sound High School to celebrate
their graduation from the OPP's DARE (Drug Abuse Resistance Education)
program. The students were supported by family and friends, teachers,
program sponsors, and guest dignitaries who also attended the ceremony on
March 1.

The guest speaker for the event was OPP Northeast Region Commander Chief
Superintendent Carson Fougere (top left). Also during the program a student
from each school was selected to read their drug awareness essay that was
written during the program. Shown here is John Todd of Nobel School. Other
student presenters included: Elizabeth Norris, Brandon Littler, and Jessica
Greer of William Beatty School; Shawna Woods of Victory; Mathew Tuck from
Whitestone; Gillian Rockwell from McDougall; Hanna Coppes from St. Peter's,
and Bo Wood-Fraser from Humphrey.

The 17-week program is directed by OPP officer Kristine Dawson and includes
information about drugs, self-esteem, bullying, and violence.