The D.A.R.E. pilot project was launched in selected Illinois elementary schools in January 1987. Fifth and sixth graders are the program's primary focus. Studies indicate that children in these grades are most responsive to prevention education, because most have not yet been introduced to controlled substances. A Serious Problem D.A.R.E. was initiated because of the alarming increase in drug use. Unfortunately, use of controlled substances is not confined only to the murky world of criminals.
Drug abuse is a serious problem plaguing more and more young people.
It impairs emotional growth and learning. Statistics show that 1 in 16 high school students smokes marijuana daily. DASA reports in Fiscal Year 1984 more that 60 percent of Illinois residents who sought treatment for drug abuse began using drugs when they were under 20. Many people in their early 20's talk of being burned out by excessive drug use in their teens. Resistance Education D.A.R.E. is a new approach to educating young people.