2010 Program Graduates Mark 20 Years Of DARE

By Eliza Hallabeck

As Reed Intermediate School Principal Sharon Epple told the crowd of parents and DARE graduates at the program’s culmination ceremony on Tuesday, March 16, DARE first started in Newtown in 1989.

“It was a partnership we wanted to embrace as a community with the police department,” said Chief of Police Michael Kehoe, after the event. Chief Kehoe was the first DARE instructor for the program when it started in town.

When he spoke to the students on Tuesday, he also described being part of the first DARE graduation ceremony 20 years ago.

“I really look forward to hearing the DARE speeches from our students,” he said.

School Resource Officer and DARE instructor Gladys Pisani told the audience it had been a rewarding experience working with each of the students.

Superintendent of Schools Janet Robinson thanked the parents for attending the graduation event, because, she said, the DARE program will help the students as they go through life.

“What your life will look like,” said Dr Robinson, turning her attention to the students, “is going to depend on your decisions.”

After speaking, Dr Robinson turned the microphone over to First Selectman Pat Llodra.

“Please know that the entire community is behind you,” said Ms Llodra, “and wants you to be successful.”

District Health Coordinator Judy Blanchard reminded the parents in the audience that student reports have shown how important they are to their children.

“Students report the most significant people in their lives are their parents, even above peers,” she said.

Behind The Scenes Work Recognized

Without naming the award, Chief Kehoe also surprised Ms Blanchard during the opening remarks for the DARE graduation ceremony on Tuesday, by announcing her as the future recipient for the “highest recognition from our department” for a civilian.

Details have not been solidified, Chief Kehoe explained, and will be announced further when they are.

The award recognizes Ms Blanchard, he said, for her work behind the scenes.

“I thought I was all prepared and now I find myself a little speechless,” said Ms Blanchard after the announcement.

After the event, Ms Blanchard said she was overwhelmed, shocked, and happy with the announcement.

“I was very honored,” she said, “and very surprised.”