FAQs • Lisle, IL • CivicEngage

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D.A.R.E.

1. What does D.A.R.E. stand for?: The letters stand for - Drug, Abuse, Resistance, Education.

2. Who teaches D.A.R.E.?: D.A.R.E. is taught by local Police Officers that go through special training to teach the curriculum. Although D.A.R.E. is taught by Police Officers, it is a collaborative effort between parents, school, and the Police Department.

3. What is the mascot and what is its name?: The D.A.R.E. mascot is Daren the Lion. Daren represents the courage it takes to be your own person and say no to drugs and violence.

4. When do I get to take D.A.R.E. in school?: The Lisle Police Department offers D.A.R.E. for 5th grade students. Visits from Officer Friendly are made available upon request for Kindergarten through 4th grades.

5. What is "core curriculum"?: The core curriculum is taught in 5th grade and consists of 16 lessons. The Officer teaches once a week for 1 class period. This lasts for 1 semester. The 16th lesson is the D.A.R.E. graduation. Each student receives a D.A.R.E. t-shirt and a certificate.

6. What if I have special needs?: There are several versions of the D.A.R.E. workbooks that exist including those for the visually impaired, mentally challenged, and Spanish-speaking students.

7. What do I do if someone I know is using drugs?: Tell someone you trust! Whether it's a parent, teacher, police officer, priest, or counselor, that person needs help. A lot of my students used to be afraid to do this, they thought they would be "telling on" or "ratting on" their friends. I always tell my students to think about the situation. If you could keep someone from getting hurt or in serious trouble, you are not telling on the person, you are helping them!

8. How can you tell if someone is using drugs?: There are several signs that someone could be using drugs, the main sign is a big change in behavior. They might start eating / snacking a lot or not eat at all. Their group of friends may change or the person's grades change dramatically. Bottom line, if you see any signs of drugs or drug paraphernalia (items used to take drugs), that is your best clue that it is time to get help for that person.

9. Where can I find out more about the D.A.R.E. program?: If you would like more information, don't hesitate to call your D.A.R.E. Officer or visit D.A.R.E.'s website.