Throughout the 2020-2021 school years, School Resource Officers around the island, while complying with COVID-19 restrictions, were still able to provide Drug Abuse Resistance Education (DARE) program to students. Officers were able to share valuable lessons with students via online learning and or in-person teaching. Even though a majority of students were not in school, officers felt that the information was still important enough to be taught. The DARE curriculum teaches students decision-making skills for safe and healthy living.

The DARE program, which is a valuable part of the School Resource Officers job, was taught at Hilo Intermediate, Ha’aheo Elementary, Kaumana Elementary, Honoka’a Elementary, and Pa’auilo Elementary schools. Students that completed the 10 DARE lessons were able to participate in a celebration, with students earning certificates, prizes, and other awards for their participation.

The Hawai’i Police Department’s School Resource Officers look forward to working and teaching the youth of the future.