2023 DARE Class graduates at Emerson Elementary (Brian Neben, Central Nebraska Today)
KEARNEY — Emerson Elementary School is proud to announce the upcoming graduation ceremony for the Drug Abuse Resistance Education (D.A.R.E.) program. The event is scheduled to take place on Monday, Nov. 25 at 2 p.m. at Emerson Elementary School, located at 2705 Avenue E in Kearney.
D.A.R.E. is a nationally recognized program that aims to educate and empower students to make safe and responsible choices, especially when it comes to resisting drugs, alcohol, and other harmful substances. The program equips 5th-grade students with valuable life skills, decision-making strategies, and the confidence to lead healthy lives.
“I am thrilled to celebrate our 5th-grade students on their DARE graduation,” stated Meredith Johnson, Emerson Principal. “This important milestone reflects their commitment to making positive choices and staying on a healthy, successful path. Our students have gained essential skills to navigate challenges, resist peer pressure, and make responsible decisions. We are incredibly grateful for the Kearney Police Department’s dedication and support in empowering our students to become confident, informed leaders in their lives and communities. Congratulations to our DARE graduates—we are excited to see how these valuable lessons will guide them on their journey ahead.”
There will be 37 students at the D.A.R.E. graduation ceremony. “The students participated in a 10-week course,” explained Officer Boyd Weller, KPD School Resource Officer and DARE Instructor. “We are proud of their commitment and dedication to the class. We are certain that DARE will make a difference in their lives. It has been an honor getting to know the students and the KPS staff who worked so hard to make this endeavor happen.”
During the ceremony, students will have the opportunity to share what they have learned throughout the D.A.R.E. program, and there will be guest speakers who will emphasize the importance of making responsible choices and staying drug-free. Family and friends are encouraged to attend and show their pride in the accomplishments of these young individuals.
