D.A.R.E. (Drug Abuse Resistance Education)

The Lake Saint Louis Police Department, in cooperation with the Wentzville R-IV School District and Green Tree Elementary, provides the Drug Abuse Resistance Education Program to area youth. We have been involved in teaching the D.A.R.E program in schools since 1994. This  program provides young people with the life skills necessary to help them resist peer pressure and avoid the temptation to experiment with drugs and alcohol.  An officer from the Lake Saint Louis Police Department who is specially trained to teach the D.A.R.E. curriculum works with students in the classroom. 

D.A.R.E. - keepin' it REAL 

Since 1983 D.A.R.E. has demonstrated leadership in the prevention of drug abuse. Collaborative efforts among Law Enforcement, Education and Prevention Science have distinguished the D.A.R.E. program. D.A.R.E.'s keepin' it REAL Elementary Curriculum continues this commitment to provide cutting edge instruction that prevents drug use by developing basic or core skills needed for safe and responsible choices. These skills extend beyond drugs to health and mature choices in life. Developing core academic and life skills, the curriculum furthers both educational and prevention goals.

The D.A.R.E.'s keepin' it REAL Elementary Curriculum is designed based on the Socio-Emotional Learning theory (SEL). SEL identifies fundamental, basic skills and developmental processes needed for healthy development including:

  • Handling responsibilities and challenges
  • Relationship and communication skills
  • Responsible decision making
  • Self-awareness and management
  • Understanding others

The curriculum uses this theory to teach youth to control their impulses and think about risks and consequences resulting in more responsible choices. We believe that if you can teach youth to make safe and responsible decisions, this guides them to healthy choices not only about drugs but across all parts of their lives. As they grow to be responsible citizens, they will lead healthier and more productive drug-free lives. 


For further information about the D.A.R.E program go to www.dare.org