DARE program underway at John Gregg Elementary

John Gregg Elementary School’s Drug Abuse Resistance Education program is underway, with students learning decision-making skills and age-appropriate lessons on topics such as peer pressure, drug dangers and making good choices.

Jefferson County Sheriff’s Deputy Ryan Gorby, the school resource officer, recently wrapped up a four-week session for fourth graders and has since started programs for second- and sixth-grade classes. The fourth-grade program ran from Dec. 5 to Jan. 8, with four sessions held before and after the holiday break because of weather-related delays and cancellations.

The second-grade program includes two 20-minute sessions each week from Jan. 13 to Feb. 4. The sixth-grade program includes a 45-minute session each week over a 10-week period, running from Jan. 16 to March 20, weather permitting.

Gorby, in his second year as the school resource officer at John Gregg, said the program is tailored by grade level, and the sixth-grade sessions will culminate with a graduation and DARE certification.

“We follow the DARE decision-making model and discuss how to make better choices. We look at problem-solving and how to define, assess, respond and evaluate,” Gorby said.

He said fourth graders learned about bullying and the difference between harmful and helpful drugs. Second graders are learning who to call during emergencies, how to follow directions, how to tell when items are safe to touch, taste, smell and eat, and how to be aware of their surroundings.

Sixth graders will learn about the effects of alcohol and vaping on developing bodies and minds; how to handle risky situations and make safe, responsible choices; resistance strategies and responding to social, peer and self-based pressure; how to identify stress and its effects on the body and communicate those concerns to others; and bullying.

“DARE is more encompassing. It’s not just about alcohol and drug use; it’s more about becoming a better citizen,” Gorby said. He added that the response has been strong. “There’s been a really good response to the fourth-grade talk. The amount of participation was incredible, considering it was my first class to teach,” he said.

Gorby completed DARE training in Columbus in September with other Jefferson County Sheriff’s Office deputies and local law enforcement officials. The group prepared to work with grades K-12 by studying curriculum materials and creating lesson plans on topics ranging from calling 911 to stranger danger. Trainees also completed presentations at the academy before working with elementary schoolchildren in the Columbus area.

Gorby said he plans to attend future sessions for curriculum updates.

“Every few years they revamp the curriculum and I’ll attend a DARE/SRO conference to discuss what we’re seeing in schools and program changes,” he said, noting there is interest in expanding DARE programs to Stanton Elementary and Edison Jr./Sr. High School.

Gorby said he is enjoying his role in the classroom.

“It gives me more one-on-one time with the kids. I get to provide some knowledge to them and make a difference,” he said.