D.A.R.E. Returns to Chicago Schools

Welcome back, Chicago!
After 13 years, D.A.R.E. returns to Chicago schools with the April 22nd graduation of 40 Chicago Police Officers from a two-week D.A.R.E. Officer Training.

Chicago Police Department Announces New D.A.R.E. Program!

Partnership with schools will teach good decision-making while
building trust between community & law enforcement

Children in elementary, middle, and high school classrooms in the greater Chicago area and throughout the country today face a multitude of high-risk circumstances including the temptation to use drugs and alcohol, bullying, teen suicide ideation, and internet and social media safety, not to mention the fear of school violence.

In response to these challenges and the long-term welfare of our community, the Chicago Police Department is relaunching the D.A.R.E. education curriculum which will be taught throughout the city.

On April 22, 2022, 40 Chicago Police Department officers completed an intensive two-week training course and were certified D.A.R.E. instructors.

For nearly four decades, the D.A.R.E. program has been a constant and present fixture throughout many schools throughout the country helping literally millions of students understand risks and exercise good decision making. This science and evidence-based, proven effective, substance abuse prevention education curricula teach students good decision-making skills that help enable them to lead safe and healthy lives.

Today, every law enforcement agency in America is seeking ways to build positive community-police relations. Clearly, the issues and challenges are complex. While there is no single solution, D.A.R.E has incorporated features in its education programs which build trust and create positive relationships between law enforcement and students and parents, thereby developing and reinforcing community-based prevention and community-oriented policing with children and families.

Students attending schools in Chicago will begin receiving the D.A.R.E. program beginning the Spring of 2022. For further information regarding the D.A.R.E. education programs that will be presented, please contact Sgt. Sharon Boyd, [email protected] of the Office of Community Policing Special Activities Unit.