D.A.R.E. program eliminated
by JESSICA L. FINCH Associate Editor

The Williamsville, Sweet Home and Amherst school districts have had the Drug Abuse Resistance Education program removed from their curricula.

Schools across the country have been using the D.A.R.E. program since it was founded in 1983 to educate students on the dangers of drug abuse.

Chief John Moslow of the Amherst Police Department said the program has been removed in response to budget cuts, but the department will continue to have a presence in the schools, educating students on bullying, drugs and Internet dangers.

"Most likely we will present in an assembly format, covering many classes at the same time," Moslow said. "Important topics, such as staying with the message of the dangers of drug abuse, will be discussed."

He added that officers and parents, recognize the hot topic of Internet safety and the need to educate children.

The department will continue to focus on meeting with fifth-graders, and Moslow said officers will visit each classroom within the academic year. Officers will also meet with younger students on Stranger Danger and teaching them to not go with someone they don't know.

Because D.A.R.E. is a national program with specific guidelines, including a classroom curriculum, the department can no longer use the name. Moslow said he doesn't want to speculate on it if the new format will have the same effect but does recognize the possibility of effectiveness being lost.

"It is important officers maintain a presence in the schools. Students are able to see another side of the officer," he said.

By suspending the D.A.R.E. program, the department will save $30,000. Moslow said in working with the three superintendents they saw the opportunity to free up classroom time as a benefit.

"With money tight, and losing officers, it's a win-win situation for us and schools," Moslow said.