Oceanport Students D.A.R.E. to Make the Right Choice

"Outstanding" was the word of the day on Thursday at annual D.A.R.E. graduation for 5th grade students.

Sgt. Steve Tagerty, who had worked with fifth grade students since October on learning the dangers of alcohol and substance abuse, told family members that filled the school's gym that the students -- and their "active minds" -- were "outstanding."

There was no doubt in the way the 75 students filed into the auditorium and gave single, enthusiastic claps at Tagerty's command that the respect went both ways.

Tagerty, who has involved in the school's D.A.R.E. program since 1999, recently was selected as New Jersey D.A.R.E. Officer of the Year, which the school's principal called "a long, overdue honor."

The gradation was a culmination of 18 weeks of working with officers and school staff to help students learn about making good decisions.

"Understand the power of your choices," School Principal Cory Radisch told the students. "I ask you to choose right."

Students were also asked to sign an anti-bullying poster as part of the D.A.R.E. program that is supported by the borough police and board of education.

"It takes great courage to be a leader," School Superintendent Andrew Orefice told the audience.