OTHELLO —The Othello Police Department celebrated the graduation of fifth graders from Lutacaga Elementary School on Monday, marking a significant milestone in the Drug Abuse Resistance Education program. The graduation highlighted the diligence and leadership shown by students throughout the ten-week program, according to OPD Chief Dave Rehaume.  

“Every fifth-grade class in the Othello School District receives the D.A.R.E. curriculum through our school resource officers,” said Rehaume.  

The program, which has been a staple in the community since its inception, focuses on cultivating essential life skills, particularly decision-making, that students can carry with them into the future. D.A.R.E. is a nationally recognized initiative that has undergone several revisions since its establishment in the early 1980s. The Othello Police Department reintroduced the program two years ago after a hiatus since 2003. Rehaume expressed enthusiasm about the program's ongoing positive impact.  

“The curriculum has changed to focus more on decision-making rather than solely on anti-drug messaging,” he said.  

In a statement from OPD, special recognition was given to School Resource Officer Fernando Lopez for his outstanding dedication and engagement with the students.  

“Your commitment makes a real difference,” said Rehaume, emphasizing the critical role that SROs play in students' lives.  

“I consider them the best school resource officers that we have,” the chief said, praising their proactive approach and their ability to build trustful relationships with students. “Having an officer that they trust is incredibly important, especially as they advance through their education.” 

The D.A.R.E. program includes the D.A.R.E. Decision Making Model, which teaches students to Define, Assess, Respond, and Evaluate challenging situations, ranging from drug use to bullying to gang awareness. 

“The long-lasting relationships built between officers and students aren't easily quantifiable, but they are invaluable, they are the bread and butter of this program,” he said. “It helps instill trust and safety within the community.” 

Approximately 80 students graduated from Lutacaga Elementary, with upcoming ceremonies scheduled for other schools in the district. “We’re excited to continue this tradition and help prepare our students for the challenges they face,” said Rehaume. 

    Othello Police Chief Dave Rehaume said the DARE program has changed throughout the years, but the “bread and butter” is the relationships students are able to form with school resource officers.