By Aabigayle McIntosh

A local educator and National Youth Ambassador is calling for the reintroduction of the Drug Abuse Resistance Education (D.A.R.E.) program, along with the establishment of community centers and recreational facilities, as part of a comprehensive strategy to foster positive behaviors among youth and address the growing issue of youth violence.

“I remember the days of the D.A.R.E. program in our schools. I was a student in that program, and I also remember the ‘Breaking the Cycle’ program. We need these programs back in our schools,” Janet Simon, a participant in a recent crime forum hosted by ABS Television and Radio, stated.

Simon emphasized the importance of regular engagement from school nurses and police officers, not only for specific programs but also to educate young people on critical topics such as the Child Justice Act. “This is a perfect way to make our youth aware of what the Child Justice Act entails. We have an opportunity to reach our nation’s youth,” she added.

The D.A.R.E. program, once an integral part of the school curriculum, was designed to help reduce drug use and violence among young people.

Simon highlighted that the current educational system is under severe strain, with teachers spending more time providing moral support to students than delivering lessons.

“The situation is exacerbated by the lack of counselors in most schools, which is crucial for children’s development,” Simon noted. She described the challenging circumstances teachers face daily: “We are supposed to teach from a curriculum, but most of our time is spent listening to children speak about abuse, lack of food, clothing, and shelter. Teachers are burdened, stressed, and in need of assistance.”

Simon urged for greater investment in initiatives that promote life skills within schools and called for more collaboration across society. “We function too independently as a society. Everyone has something to say, but we do not speak collectively. We need to come together; we cannot function disjointedly anymore,” she concluded.