Aug 01 2006
Schools Dropping DARE Drug Education
DARE, the very popular drug education program found in many schools across the country, is starting to be dropped by some schools.
Karen Chilson, an educational consultant at CESA 11, said many schools have stopped using DARE to teach drug and alcohol prevention, even though the programs is popular with many parents, teachers and students. The problem is that requirements for obtaining federal aid for these prevention classes have “become much more stringent” in recent years.
In particular, there is increasing pressure that these programs funded by federal dollars must have scientific evidence showing that the classes effectively reduce or delay the onset of drug and alcohol use, Chilson said. Proof of changed behaviors and retained knowledge about drugs is also strongly encouraged.
This article comes out of Barron Wisconsin and goes on to further outline the issues with federal funding and the DARE program.
When I went to school, DARE was really just beginning. My kids have had DARE and, as a parent, I was happy with the program. Of course, you have to do more than rely on the school system to educate your kids on drugs, but every little bit helps. From reading the replies listed below, I’m getting a different picture of the program.
Others blogging:
- D.A.R.E. to Make an Educated Decision
- DARE to get rid of DARE
- D.A.R.E – Whoops…
- the tightrope
- D.A.R.E.
DARE is a program that people want to like; say no to drugs, have pride, make good decisions, etc. It “feels” right to support DARE. Does it work? I has to have some impact, but I suspect parents and peers still hold all the cards.
DARE can be expensive. Someone has to pay for the police officers who conduct the program. There is also instructional costs; time away from regular classroom instruction. We keep squeezing more requirements into the school day, but never take anything out.
In the end, I believe that the most important decision a kid can make is to decide to keep drugs out of their lives. With that in mind, programs like DARE have to continue. If only one kid per class is changed by the program, the cost is justified.
Check out the DARE site for more.
