The Somerville Police Department D.A.R.E., (Drug Abuse Resistance Education), program got it's start in 1990 when a Somerville officer was sent to Richmond, Virginia to be trained to teach the seventeen weeks of structured curriculum to fifth and sixth grade students.

The D.A.R.E. program within the Borough of Somerville is taught by the Community Policing Officer Steve Maszczak.

The program consists of 17 lessons, which are taught in 45 minute blocks. The emphasis is placed on practical application and techniques to be used to stay drug free and violence free. Ways to say no to drugs and handle peer pressure on children approaching their middle school years is addressed, and resistance techniques practiced in the form of role-playing. The program culminates with the students writing an essay and pledge to their parents, community, and themselves that they will stay drug and violence free.

The program is primarily funded through private donations from local organizations such as the Somerville Elks and Somerville Eagles, to name a couple.

With the support of parents, teachers, and dedicated D.A.R.E. officers, the Somerville D.A.R.E. program will continue to thrive and make an impact on our communities' future by preparing our children for the pitfalls ahead and how to avoid them.

Should you have any questions or comments about our program, please direct them to Officer Steve Maszczak at 908-725-0331.