On Tuesday, November 20, East Meadows 5th graders became D.A.R.E. (Drug Abuse Resistance Education) graduates. Officer Chris Sherriff welcomed family and friends as he commended the 5th graders for completing their 10-week educational training. In order to receive their graduation certificates, students participated in class discussions and activities, learned songs, and wrote thoughtful essays on why it is important to stay away from drugs and other harmful substances. The D.A.R.E. mission statement is: Teaching students good decision making skills to help them lead safe and healthy lives. The official D.A.R.E website states that, “D.A.R.E.’s primary mission is to provide children with the information and skills they need to live drug-and-violence-free lives. The mission is to equip kids with the tools that will enable them to avoid negative influences and instead, allow them to focus on their strengths and potential. Additionally, it establishes positive relationships between students and law enforcement, teachers, parents, and other community leaders. Every youngster should have the opportunity to grow-up healthy, safe, secure, and equipped with the skills needed to succeed in life." Outstanding D.A.R.E. essay winners are: Cydney Nielsen, Grace Fillmore, Nathaniel Alton, Kyler Porter and William Horlacher. Two students from each class were selected as the Outstanding D.A.R.E. student. From Mrs. Andersen's class John Harding and Cheyenne Satteson. Mrs. Hogle's class, Josie Anderson and Kyson Briggs. Mrs. Hughes' class, Bryce Marshall and Emma Tuttle. Mrs. Jackson’s class, Justin Butler and Adriana Sorsenson. Killpack’s class is Tanner Jex. Winners of the DARE Lion are: Sydney Hansen, Dallin Smith, Lexi Sorensen and Jonah Green. Congratulations to all the 5th grade students on graduating from this program. We also thank Officer Chris Sherriff and the 5th grade teachers for their time in this worthwhile program.