In January 2001 Beth graduated from her school's D.A.R.E. (Drug Abuse Resistance Education) program. Each year the students are asked to write an Essay about what they have learned. Beth's essay won third prize and she was asked to read it as part of the graduation program. To learn more about D.A.R.E. check out their web site at www.dare.org


Beth and other students who were honored at the graduation.



TAKING A STAND

I really enjoy the D.A.R.E program. I believe that without this program there would be many more students dropping out of school and on drugs. But thanks to this fantastic program many kids will say no to drugs and violence (including me). I feel that D.A.R.E. should be taught to students in all schools.

Throughout this time I have spent in the D.A.R.E. program I have learned many things. Such as, what the drugs can do to your body. I have learned 8 different ways to say NO to drugs. I have learned that slang terms can be used for different kinds of drugs, like weed, grass, and pot. I have also learned that if I say no to someone they wont start attacking you.

I think it is important to be drug-free and avoid violence because you will have less chance of getting a good job or education. If someone started doing drugs or got involved in violence they wouldn't be interested in anything but that. They would either end up in jail or on the streets. I believe everyone should grow up free from drugs and violence.

--Beth Brady

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