(Drug Abuse Resistance Education) is the largest school based drug abuse and violence reduction program in the world today. It offers a variety of learning activities structured for elementary and middle school students. DARE offers a curriculum for elementary school students that emphasizes the skills necessary to resist the temptation of drugs and alcohol, to avoid acts of violence, and to enhance the student’s ability to problem solve. DARE encourages youngsters to lead healthy lifestyles and enhances independent growth in spite of negative peer pressure.

Patrolman Jason Haykel has been a police officer in East Brunswick since July 1998. He holds an Associates Degree from Gloucester County College where he majored in Criminal Justice. In 2002 Officer Haykel received four weeks of intensive training leading to his certification as a D.A.R.E instructor. Since September 2002 Officer Haykel has taught the 10 week D.A.R.E program to fifth grade children in each of the township’s elementary schools. Topics students discuss include:

Health Effects of Tobacco Use Effects of Marihuana Use Friendship and Peer Pressure Ways to Say No Combating Media Influences Managing Stress Without Taking Drugs