Drug Abuse Resistance Education

Purpose
The Drug Abuse Resistance Education (D.A.R.E) program is a joint project between Watertown Police Department and Watertown City Schools to prevent drug abuse in children. Traditional drug abuse programs dwell on the harmful effects of drugs, whereas the program emphasis of D.A.R.E. is to help students recognize and resist the many subtle pressures that influence them to experiment with drugs, gangs, and violence. In addition, program strategies focus on topics such as considering consequences, decision-making skills, stress management, positive alternatives to drug use and feelings related to self-esteem.