Similkameen Elementary’s grade 5 classes of 2014 celebrated their Drug Abuse Resistance Education graduation on Tuesday, March 12.
More than 40 students participated in the proceedings, which was also well attended by family members, local politicians and RCMP.
This year, a special note of appreciation was made to local auxiliary RCMP Troyce Beglaw and Constable Pam Scheidl for their annual efforts and time put into the program.
Keremeos Mayor Manfred Bauer presented Beglaw with a framed certificate in appreciation and acknowledgement of his work over several years in the DARE program.
Principal Cate Turner told the gathering DARE was about teaching students how to make good decision, using the program’s decision making model. She acknowledged the outstanding support of parents to the program.
Regional detachment commander, Superintendent Kevin Hewco was also present for the cermony. He told the audience he always found it a pleasure to attend a DARE grad, noting this was the first one he had been able to attend since becoming regional commander.
Hewco said this year’s grads represented role model for younger children, thanking parents and care givers for their support of the program.
Several students read “letters to their future selves” outlining the strength of their commitment. The graduates then received their diplomas, which was followed by celebratory cake.