DARE Graduations were held for 5^th grade students at James Stephens Montessori on Thursday April 27, 2017.  Later the same afternoon the graduation ceremony for and Sacred Heart Elementary 5^th grade students took place in the Sacred Heart Elementary Gym. Children completing this program were taught an hour every school day for ten weeks about the dangers of drugs, alcohol, bullying and the difference between making bad decisions and smart decisions. Detective Sergeant Charles Hall worked in the classrooms with the children to educate them on these dangers, temptations and peer pressure. During each ceremony the guest speaker, Pastor Caleb Semien from the Word Ministries Church in Eunice La, spoke to the children about focusing on being the best that they can be each day and surrounding themselves with positive influences while keeping negative influences away. 

The children are each asked to write an essay at the end of the DARE Program describing what they learned and how the program benefits them.  One winner from each class was chosen.

From James Stephens Montessori the essay winners are: 

Camry Freeman  (Teacher Chenile Tezeno)

Mason Buller (Teacher Julie Landreneau)

Sacred Heart Elementary essay winners are:

Gavin Soileau (Teacher Jesslyn Perrodin)

Taylor Darbonne (Teacher Missie Soileau)

After each ceremony all of the children were treated to refreshments donated by Walmart.  Chief Lartigue and Det. Sgt. Hall extend a special thanks to Pastor Semien as guest speaker and Walmart Manager Josh Anderson for their participation in this worthwhile program.

“It’s important to work with our youth to give them the tools and knowledge that allows them to build a better future.”  Chief Neal Lartigue said.  “The DARE program sets guidelines and teaches them what problems they may face in society today and gives them decision making skills to help cope with these situations. “

This is James Stephens Montessori’s first year participating in the DARE Program since the program is geared toward fifth grade students.  The addition of fifth grade classes this school year made the school eligible to participate and we are excited to be teaching this program there.

This graduation marks the 26th year that the Ville Platte Police Department has taught the DARE Program in our schools.