The Brighton Police Department began teaching the D.A.R.E. (Drug Abuse Resistance Education) Program in Brighton Schools in January 1991. Since that time, thousands of Brighton students have received D.A.R.E. instruction. The core 10-lesson program is taught to approximately 100 students each year in the following Brighton Schools:
- Seton Catholic School - 2nd, 3rd, and 5th grades
- The Harley School - 5th grade
The D.A.R.E. Program consists of making students aware of drug abuse and its effect on their physical and mental well-being. Children are instructed about decision-making skills and proper educational decisions. Lessons covered include personal safety, decision making, consequences, peer pressure, and self-esteem; and feature role plays dealing with being assertive, handling stress, avoiding violence, pressure from media, life-style responsibilities, and problem solving.
A major aspect of the program is the interaction and rapport established between students and the Police.