This year's Drug Abuse Resistance Program (DARE) graduation at Spanish Lakes Elementary (SLE) was bittersweet due to the beloved Miami-Dade Police Officer Wendy Heller's forthcoming retirement. Since the school’s inception, Heller has served as SLE’s resource officer and DARE instructor.
After the students were presented the certificate of completion for the 10 week course, a special award was given to 5th grader, Max Valcin, in Julie Tejaro’s room for being genuinely kind and an exemplary student in the program. Then, a surprise program in Heller’s honor was given.
A spectacular dance routine was performed by 5th grade girls. Poems “Believe In Yourself” and “The Gift of Time,” were recited by the class. Principal Jacqueline Arias-Gonzalez presented Heller with a plaque of appreciation and flowers. Fifth grade students and teachers presented her with a special gift. This was followed by the DARE song and pledge.
“This is my largest graduating group, and one I’ll never forget,” said Heller.
DARE is provided to 5th graders in Miami-Dade County Schools by a trained police officer to impact the students with positive information as to how to handle the negative influences of drugs, bullying, internet safety and other high-risk behaviors. The DARE program instills in children that it’s okay to do the right thing. It also focuses on helping others in the community through projects while also concentrating on confidence, leadership, and communication.