Friday Big Day for Yelle Students

Friday was a busy day for students as the Citizens of the Month from the year were recognized and D.A.R.E. students graduated from the program.

Each month, certain teachers got to choose a Citizen of the Month, a student who demonstrated redeeming qualities. At the end of each month, these students were treated to a luncheon.

In total, 38 students were named Citizen of the Month this school year, and were called on stage to receive awards.

“Each of the students is someone who respects others and their property,” began principal Lisa Farrell in a speech. “He or she is helpful and considerate, willing to put others first.”

Other qualifications of Citizens of the Month are listening to the views of others and thinking about what they have to say, helping people who are not in a position to help themselves, working hard, being well-mannered and pleasant and always willing to learn.

“I am very proud of all of you,” Farrell said. “I know you will be successful in all you do. Thank you for being a pat of my best memories of this year. You are all amazing.”

After the ceremony they were treated to a breakfast.

Not long after that ceremony ended, the D.A.R.E. graduation ceremony began, opening with the “Star Spangled Banner” sung by police detective James Franco.

This is the first time in seven years that Yelle School has participated in the D.A.R.E. program because of budget cuts. From 1997 to 2004, patrolman Scott Sweeting from Norton Police Department ran the program. He reprised his role this year, teaching 225 kids the skills they need to avoid involvement in drugs, gangs and violence.

“He’s become a member of the family and a special friend,” Farrell said.

Sweeting was more than happy to be back, working with Farrell and the students. This year’s program was only supposed to run a few weeks, but thanks to police chief Brian Clark, Sweeting was able to complete the 10-week program.

“Unfortunately we had a gap in the program, but I’m back and hope to keep it going,” Sweeting said.

Several students read essays to their classmates, teachers and parents expressing what they learned from Sweeting and the program. Those students were Dylan Moreau, Mackenzie Dwier, Brooke Perry, Katie Bradley, Taylor Mulvehill and Skylar Daley.

 "D.A.R.E. has taught me to say “no” and make smart decisions,” Perry said.

 The program is funded in part by D.A.R.E. Camp from the Attleboro YMCA, which this year will run 9 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. July 18 to 22 for incoming fifth and sixth graders. Staffed by D.A.R.E. police officers and YMCA staff, D.A.R.E. Camp provides students with the tools they need to avoid negative influences and rise above peer pressure. The deadline to register is June 30, and costs $125. For more information visit www.attleboroymca.org/camp or call 508-222-7292.