More than 40 Axton Elementary School students took an important step in making responsible choices and fostering positive relationships, by recently completing the Drug Abuse Resistance Education (DARE) program.
The program, taught by local law enforcement officers, aims to educate students about the dangers of drug use, bullying, and other risky behaviors, while equipping them with strategies to make safe and healthy decisions. At Axton Elementary, students celebrated their achievement, hard work and the skills they have gained.
The DARE curriculum has evolved over the years to address modern challenges faced by young people, including social media safety, managing peer pressure, and fostering mental health awareness. The program, a collaborative effort between schools and law enforcement, has been a staple in communities across the country for decades. Its success relies on partnerships with educators, parents, and local leaders who share a commitment to empowering young people.
As the graduates look ahead to new challenges, the foundation they’ve built through DARE will remain a resource they can rely on. For many, it marks the beginning of a lifelong commitment to making positive choices and contributing to their communities. (Contributed photos)