IQALUIT - More than 100 Grade 7 students at Aqsarniit Middle School graduated from the Drug Abuse Resistance Education (DARE) program in Iqaluit on April 30.

Grade 7 student Daniel Kolola displays his graduation certificate from the Drug Abuse Resistance Education program at Aqsarniit Middle School in Iqaluit on April 30. - Kassina Ryder/NNSL photo

"We're really excited to have so many students who have finished the program," principal Don Peters said.

The ceremony, which took place in the school gym packed to capacity with graduating students and family members, was kicked off by the Aqsarniit Middle School choir singing "O Canada."

The program took place during the first week of March and was delivered by RCMP Const. Russell Akeeagok and Const. Ian Allen.

"This kind of program gives young people the tools to make proper decisions," Akeeagok said.

During the week, Akeeagok and Allen visited each class, teaching students about the dangers of drugs and alcohol.

Allen said in addition to learning about dangerous substances, students learned about using good judgment.

"It was a very intense week," he said during the ceremony. "DARE is more than just saying no."

Peters said students responded to having the RCMP in the school.

"The whole attitude in the school changes," he said.

He also said the program helps dispel the "everybody does it" myth about drugs and alcohol.

Student Sonja Dunkers said she learned about marijuana during the week.

"I learned that marijuana users have more colds and upper respiratory problems," she said.

Fellow student Daniel Kolola said he believed avoiding drugs and alcohol leads to a healthier lifestyle.

"I think it's important because you can play better in sports and have a better life," he said.

Acting education minister Hunter Tootoo said skills kids learn through the DARE program can help them aid fellow young people facing tough decisions.

"I know you will face pressures to experiment," he said to the crowd. "Hearing from a peer, a friend, goes much further than hearing it from somebody else."

Peters said the program also helps form a bond between students and the RCMP.

"It's important for kids to make a connection between community police, the school and themselves," he said.