Elmwood Celebrates D.A.R.E. Graduates

On Friday, May 8, Elmwood Elementary held its 5th grade D.A.R.E. graduation! Focusing on topics like responsibility, health and safety, peer pressure, bullying, and many more, this program teaches lessons that set students up for successful futures.

The day consisted of thoughtful speeches by administration, community, and board members. One speech that particularly stood out was made by Elmwood Assistant Principal Stephanie Hagins. She expressed the value of the program, emphasizing the importance of teaching students strong morals and decision-making skills at an early age. Mrs. Hagins also reflected on how, in today’s technology-driven world, students are constantly exposed to a wide range of influences and information at their fingertips, making programs like D.A.R.E. especially meaningful in helping them make smart choices. 

A special thank you also goes out to School Resource Officer, Victor Piermattei, and Chief of Police, Andrew Hock, for their attendance and for offering this impactful program at our schools here in District 401.

During the ceremony, selected students were invited up to the podium to pledge good behavior in front of their peers. They spread messages of kindness, resisting peer pressure, and remaining drug and alcohol free. After the pledges were made, students were called up one by one to receive their certificates, as well as a D.A.R.E t-shirt for their achievements. Following the ceremony, families gathered to take photos and congratulate the students on their work. 

In a world where students are regularly navigating new challenges, the D.A.R.E. program continues to help them build confidence to be the best versions of themselves. Congratulations to the Elmwood 5th graders for an outstanding accomplishment!

Check out photos from the event in our Smugmug gallery!