How DARE Shapes our School Community

Pictured at DARE graduation, from left, are OPD Deputy Chief Tony Wittke; OPD Chief Correy Farniok; sixth grade presenters Quinlyn Delapp, Gwen White, Lucy Peterson, and Rylee Cordie; Mound Mayor Jason Holt, and SRO Susan Schultz.

Westonka Middle School has a long and proud history of participating in the DARE (Drug Abuse Resistance Education) program, which has been a cornerstone of fostering healthy decision-making among students. For decades, DARE has not only educated young minds about the dangers of drugs and alcohol but has also empowered them with critical refusal skills, resilience, and knowledge to navigate life’s challenges.

The focus of the DARE program today has evolved significantly from the DARE program in 1983 when it began. Today’s DARE program is far more than hammering home the “Just Say No” mantra many students’ parents learned and instead has expanded to include refusal strategies, mental health education, and bullying prevention. These new enhancements better equip students with practical tools for self-advocacy and informed decision-making, addressing both the health risks and legal consequences of substance abuse. This comprehensive approach fosters a safer and healthier future for all participants.

A unique and invaluable aspect of DARE is the involvement of School Resource Officers (SROs). Today's students face unprecedented challenges, including the real dangers of school violence they hear about in the news. This reality creates a critical need for safe and supportive school environments. The presence of SROs, like Officer Susan Schultz, provides a vital layer of reassurance. Their visibility and accessibility help foster a sense of security among students, allowing them to focus on learning without the burden of fear. WMS student surveys also reflect this, as students overwhelmingly report feeling safe at school and what to do if they don’t feel safe.   

SROs are more than just safety personnel and DARE teachers; they are mentors and trusted adults who build meaningful relationships with students. By being approachable and engaged in school activities, they help create a community where students feel protected and supported, reinforcing their confidence that their school is a safe space.

“We are deeply grateful for the unwavering support of the City of Mound and Orono Police Departments,” said Principal Christy Zachow. “Their presence at the annual DARE graduation ceremony on November 21 underscores their commitment to the well-being of our youth. Through their funding, fund-raising and active involvement, these departments demonstrate their dedication to fostering a supportive and proactive community.

“We celebrate our students’ DARE graduation and what they learned in the program,” Zachow added. “We also celebrate the positive impact the program has had on countless students and look forward to building a brighter, safer future together.”

Click here if you would like to see some of the presentations that were selected to share at graduation.