City of North Bend release - Two North Bend police officers will return to campus this fall armed with fresh tools to help students steer clear of drugs and violence.  School Resource Officers Jaehnig and Sanne have completed a rigorous, two‑week Drug Abuse Resistance Education (D.A.R.E.) instructor course, the Police Department announced Friday. The certification prepares them to teach the nationally recognized prevention curriculum as School Resource Officers in North Bend’s elementary, middle and high schools during the 2025‑26 year.  “This training sharpens the connection between law enforcement and our kids,” Police Chief Cal Mitts said. “Officers Jaehnig and Sanne are ready to lead age‑appropriate conversations about making safe, healthy choices.”  Grant covers training costs, Travel, lodging and tuition were paid in full through state grant funding, allowing the department to add the specialty at no cost to city taxpayers. The course, held in Salem and led by veteran D.A.R.E. mentors, combined classroom instruction with hands‑on teaching practice.  What students can expect:  Founded in Los Angeles in 1983, D.A.R.E. is a police‑officer‑led program that now reaches millions of students in more than 50 countries. Lessons span kindergarten through 12th grade and focus on: Decision‑making: Students practice a step‑by‑step process for weighing risks and outcomes.  Communication skills: Role‑playing exercises help youth resist peer pressure.  Healthy lifestyles: Officers discuss the dangers of alcohol, vaping, illicit drugs and gang activity.  Respect and empathy: The curriculum promotes treating others with dignity to prevent bullying and violence.  D.A.R.E.’s mission is “teaching students good decision‑making skills to help them lead safe and healthy lives.” Independent evaluations have credited the program’s law‑enforcement instructors—and their real‑world experience—for keeping the content relatable.  Next steps in North Bend:  Jaehnig and Sanne will spend the remainder of the summer tailoring lesson plans to North Bend classrooms and meeting with district administrators. The first presentations are scheduled for September.  Parents or teachers with questions may contact the department through the city’s website, northbendoregon.us/contact.