NANUET, NY — Sixth-grade students at A. MacArthur Barr Middle School were recognized this week for completing the Drug Abuse Resistance Education (D.A.R.E.) program, marking the culmination of a course focused on decision-making, personal responsibility and safety.
Clarkstown Police Chief Jeffrey Wanamaker, Town Supervisor George Hoehmann and members of the Town Board attended the ceremony to congratulate the students on their achievement. The program was led by Clarkstown Police Officer Kathleen Gavin, who worked with students throughout the school year on strategies to resist peer pressure, manage stress and make healthy, informed choices.
School officials and town leaders highlighted the collaboration between the Clarkstown Police Department and the Nanuet Union Free School District, noting that the partnership has helped reinforce consistent messages about safety and responsibility both in and out of the classroom.
Town officials also thanked the Board and school district administrators for their continued support of the program.
The D.A.R.E. program is a nationally recognized prevention initiative aimed at helping young people develop skills to avoid substance use and engage in positive behaviors. The ceremony concluded with congratulations to the graduating students as they move on to the next stage of their education.