Fifth graders graduate DARE program

For 10 weeks, Officer Jeremy Burdess met with the Monroe Elementary fifth grade for an hour each week to present the DARE program. The various topics included drug awareness, bullying and decision making choices. One week, Officer Burdess brought in a drug dog to demonstrate his responsibilities and give them an opportunity to ask questions regarding his training and use on the force. All students prepared an essay to be read and three individuals were chosen to recite at the graduation ceremony Dec. 6 in the ME gym. Pictured in back is Officer Jeremy Burdess, guest speaker Robbie Robinson from Discover Hope and Duane Rozendaal, Jasper County Chief Deputy. The winning essays were Addison Shannon, Meredith Chipps and Allisa Klein. All students were received a certificate and backpack from Officer Burdess and the Jasper County Sheriff’s Office.