Area students graduate DARE program

Fifth graders across Vermilion Parish have just graduated from the DARE program taught by Captain Lance Broussard of the Vermilion Parish Sheriff’s Office.
“DARE” stands for “Drug Abuse Resistance Education” This has been part of the curriculum since 1983 in schools across the nation.
The DARE “Keepin’ It REAL” course is designed based on the socio-emotional learning (SEL) theory. SEL identifies the fundemental, basic skills and developmental processes needed for healthy development.

The main points outlines are as follows:
-Self-awareness
-Responsible decision making
-Understanding others
-Relationship and communication skills
-Handling responsibilities and challenges

The curriculum uses this theory to teach youth to control their impluses and think about risks and consequences resulting in more responsible choices.

Define: Describe the problem, challenge or opportunity
Asses: Weigh the difference between choices and consequences
Respond: Use facts and information to make a choice
Evaluate: Review your decision

It is DARE’s vision that youth who think their way through situations make better choices that are not impulsive, communicate, and relate to people will be drug-free and more successful in all areas of their lives. This is our vision for success and the journey that begins with lesson one.
Captain Broussard would like to thank the sheriff for allowing the department to teach the program to children in the parish and for making it a better environment for all.

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