Several hundred St. Bernard Parish fifth-graders recently graduated from the fal

Several hundred St. Bernard Parish fifth-graders recently graduated from the fall semester of the St. Bernard Sheriff’s Office’s Drug Abuse Resistance Education program.

Lynn Oaks School had 16 students graduate from the program on Dec. 4, Arabi Elementary held a ceremony Dec. 6 for 86 students, and J.F. Gauthier Elementary had 84 students graduate on Dec. 10. Chalmette Elementary held a ceremony on Dec. 12 for 78 students and Our Lady of Prompt Succor had 39 students graduate on Dec. 17.

Sheriff James Pohlmann said the D.A.R.E. anti-drug program, taught in St. Bernard Parish schools by program supervisor Lt. Lisa Jackson and Sgt. Darrin Miller, is aimed at discouraging youngsters from using drugs, including tobacco and alcohol, or taking part in violence or bullying of others.

During the graduation ceremonies, students heard from Sheriff Pohlmann and other officers who spoke about making the right choices when it comes to the use of drugs or alcohol. The Sheriff stressed the importance of listening to their parents and teachers, and choosing their friends wisely. He also told the students not to bully others, and to report any kind of bullying they witness to an adult or teacher.

Sheriff Pohlmann also addressed parents in attendance about the importance of protecting our future by investing in our children. He praised parents for taking part in keeping their children on the right path and focused on doing the right thing, including talking often with them and looking for warning signs to help prevent drug use.

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