Lloyd Road Students D.A.R.E. to Resist Drugs and Alcohol

Fourth and fifth graders at Lloyd Road School in Aberdeen graduated from Drug Abuse Resistance Education (D.A.R.E.) last week, a program presented by the Aberdeen Township and Matawan Borough police departments. 

The program is part of a nationwide effort to teach adolescents how to stand up to peer pressure and how to say "No" to drinking, smoking and taking drugs.

At the culmination of the program, each student was tasked with writing an essay reflecting on what they have learned. Five students from each grade were recognized for going above and beyond and were asked to read their essay to their fellow classmates during the graduation ceremony.

The essays highlighted self respect and the physical implications of using drugs, alcohol, and tobacco. Each student seemed to also emphasized that they now felt empowered to live a healthy lifestyle.

"Thanks to D.A.R.E., I will not be helpless when trouble comes," said Ridah, a fourth grader.

The D.A.R.E. program was taught by Aberdeen Township Police Officers Vito Turchiano, Jr. and Jeffrey Griffith.

"Job well done. Never forget the lessons you have learned from this program," Officer Turchiano said.