Fort Norman (Mar 07/05) - Bully-proofing the school and knowing how to make healthy choices were hot topics in Tulita recently.

For three days in February, students and teachers at Chief Albert Wright school, as well as parents, were visited by two presenters from the Dare to Care program.

Creator of the Dare to Care program Lisa Dixon-Wells talks to students at Chief Albert Wright school in Tulita about how to keep the school safe from bullies.

The main objective of the program is to help communities reduce harm and form more positive relationships by sending a clear message about the dangers of substance abuse and violence.

"I thought it was really interesting," said Tracy Yakeleya.

"It changes the way teenagers look at drinking."

The Grade 10 student said it was the statistics and specific details that struck her during the presentations.

Students were shown movies with autopsy footage that show the effects of drugs and alcohol on the body, she said.

"And you saw all sorts of families crying," she said of a movie showing the aftermath of drinking and driving accidents.

The seminar was the first of its kind for the 186 students at the K-12 school, said principal Wayne Dawe.

Both he and the school's guidance counsellor took part in the program before deciding to spend $8,000 to bring it to the community.

"We were both really impressed with the presentations," said counsellor Neil Barry.

Take an equal role

Teachers and parents take an equal role within the program. The first day was directed entirely at the teachers, while a parents meeting was held Tuesday night.

"It was disappointing on that end," said Dawe of the lower-than-expected turnout of 10 parents. Many were unable to attend, he explained, and have asked to have the program return in the future.

Tuesday and Wednesday were left entirely for assemblies, forums and role playing with the students.

"The kids were riveted," said Dawe.

Kindergarten to Grade 7 students were taught how to keep the school free of bullies. Grade 8-12 students also learned how to make smart choices about drugs and alcohol.

Taylor Fraser, a Grade 10 student, said the seminars will have a positive impact on life at the school.

"I think it's very important to bring it back."

The 16-year-old, who admitted he used to smoke pot, was shocked to learn that smoking one joint had the same health effects as smoking a pack of cigarettes.