At Cox Mill Elementary School, a celebration took place on December 12 as students graduated from the D.A.R.E. program, marking a significant achievement in their commitment to making healthy choices. The event, organized by the Cabarrus County Sheriff’s Office, recognized the hard work of young participants who engaged in lessons about drug and violence prevention.
The D.A.R.E. program, which stands for Drug Abuse Resistance Education, aims to empower students with the knowledge and skills necessary to make informed decisions. Under the guidance of School Resource Officer Deputy April McCraven, these students are equipped not only with educational tools but also with the support of a dedicated mentor.
The sheriff’s office took to social media to express their pride in the graduates, stating, “We are incredibly proud of these students for their hard work and commitment to making positive, healthy choices.” This acknowledgment underscores the importance of early health education and the critical role that school resource officers play in fostering safe and supportive learning environments.
Throughout the program, Deputy McCraven not only served as a law enforcement officer but also as an educator, focusing on key topics such as drug prevention and conflict resolution. Her dual role has been instrumental in encouraging students to actively participate and engage with the material, enhancing the overall effectiveness of the D.A.R.E. curriculum.
The ceremony at Cox Mill Elementary was a fitting tribute to the achievements of the young graduates, who now carry forward a pledge to make positive choices in their lives. This initiative highlights the ongoing efforts by the Cabarrus County Sheriff’s Office to promote a healthier, drug-free community through education and proactive engagement with youth.
As the students move forward, the lessons learned through the D.A.R.E. program will serve as a foundation for their future decision-making processes. The involvement of dedicated educators like Deputy McCraven illustrates the vital link between law enforcement and educational institutions in shaping responsible and informed citizens.
