Valparaiso Drug Abuse Resistance Education

D.A.R.E. Program

The D.A.R.E. program was revamped in 2009, with an evidence-based prevention curriculum based on Socio-Emotional Learning Theory. This theory identifies basic skills needed for healthy youth development, such as, self-awareness and management, responsible decision-making, understanding others, relationship and communication skills, and handling responsibility and challenges. The curriculum uses this theory to teach youth to control their impulses and think about risks and consequences, resulting in more responsible, safe and healthy choices.

The Valparaiso D.A.R.E. program is delivering the core curriculum of D.A.R.E. to over 5,000 students. Along with the core curriculum, D.A.R.E. Officers deliver enhanced curriculums to include dangers of vaping, alcohol, tobacco, internet safety, medication safety, and bullying.

The vision of the Valparaiso D.A.R.E. program is to deliver the core curriculum to students K-8 in the Valparaiso Community Schools, St. Paul Catholic School, and Immanuel Lutheran School, by instructing positive decision making for safe and healthy living to our students!