The annual DARE program held at Louisville Elementary was bigger and better this year as DARE Graduates and parents, grandparents, family, friends and community leaders packed the auditorium on Friday, April 15.
Fifth grade students from Louisville, Winston Academy,Noxapater and Nanih Waiya participated in the program. The ceremony was opened with a Pledge of Allegiance led by DARE officer Tonya McWhirter, the presentation of colors by JROTC from Louisville High, The National Anthem was performed by Cassi Pearson, a music therapy major at ECCC and the welcome was given by Mary Ann Stokes, a DARE student.
Students and parents heard encouragement from local leaders including Tonya McWhirter, Louisville Police Department Dare Officer, Police Chief L.M. Claiborne, and Mayor Will Hill.
State Attorney General Jim Hood was scheduled to speak but could not attend due to a family emergency. Jean Smith Vaughan, a prosecutor in the State Attorney's Office was gracious enough to fill in for Hood. Vaughan is the head of cybercrime and internet crimes against children in the SA's office.
Vaughan has ties to Louisville and spoke fondly of growing up and attending school at Louisville Elementary.
Participants in the DARE Program compete for several awards including Essays, Star Students, Students of the Year and classroom Graffiti. The following list indicates the winners of this year's awards.
More photos from the event can be seen by clicking here.
