Richard Gleeson
Northern News Services

Yellowknife (May 24/02) - Sixty Mildred Hall students emerged from a course that could prove the most valuable of their formal education.

Cpl. Charlotte Joa addresses Mildred Hall graduates of the RCMP's DARE program during a recent ceremony at the school. - Richard Gleeson/NNSL photo

The students are the latest graduates of the RCMP's Drug Abuse Resistance Education program.

It is the fourth year for DARE at the elementary school.

"The purpose of the program is to give kids straight facts on drugs and teach them to make solid decisions in the future," said Cpl. Charlotte Joa.

Started as a pilot project in Hay River and Yellowknife in the 1997-98 school year, the DARE program is now delivered in 13 NWT communities.

The program is delivered to elementary school students in an attempt to reach youngsters before they come in contact with drugs, alcohol and tobacco.

DARE also teaches children how to steer clear of violence.

The impact of the program was evident in the essays graduates wrote about what they learned from the 17-week course.

"I also promise (to say No to drugs) to my sister because if one day she needs me, I'll be there," wrote one graduate.

A pivotal part of navigating the sometimes dangerous waters of adolescence is urging students to look to their parents for guidance.

"You may not like what they say, you may not agree with what they say, but keep talking because they've been there," Sgt Al McCambridge told the two graduating classes.

"It may have been a long, long time ago, but they've been there."

McCambridge also urged parents to do their part to keep communication going.

The healthy turnout of mothers and fathers at the graduation ceremony, some videotaping and photographing their children accepting their certificates, was a firm indication that they are prepared to hold up their end of the bargain.