Students Honored As Berkeley D.A.R.E. Role Models

BERKELEY, NJ — A group of local students were recognized as 2023 D.A.R.E. Program Role Models.

The students, who showed integrity, compassion and lead by example, were honored at a recent Berkeley Township Council meeting.

“The D.A.R.E. program is an important initiative that aims to educate and empower young individuals to make healthy choices. This program not only focuses on drug prevention but also addresses other issues such as bullying, violence, and decision-making,” Mayor Carmen Amato said.

“This year we had many students who excelled not only within the D.A.R.E program but overall as a student and we decided to recognize these students as the D.A.R.E. ROLE MODELS for the 2023 School year,” said D.A.R.E. Officer Mikki Baranyay.

Officials said that these students served as an example of what is possible, showing their peers a path to succeed and grow.

“The role models who were chosen, inspired and motivated others students through their actions and behavior in and out of the classroom,” said Chief Kevin Santucci.

“Every one of these students has proved what it takes to be a great leader and someone their friends can look up to for advice and help when they are in need,” said Council President John Bacchione. “The Township Council and I, congratulate each and everyone of them.”