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 October 30, 2023 at 2:00 PM 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.
“Emerson is a dedicated supporter of the D.A.R.E. program,” said Principal Meredith Johnson. “The graduation ceremony serves as a culmination of the students’ hard work and commitment to a drug-free lifestyle and will be a significant milestone in the lives of the young graduates. We are thankful for our continued partnership with Kearney Police Department and appreciate them helping to create a safe and supportive environment that empowers our students to make positive choices.”
There will be 30 students at the D.A.R.E. graduation ceremony. “The students participated in a10-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.
Emerson is the first school in the Kearney Public School district in several years to host the DARE program.
