Fifth-grader Anna Zelinsky says the DARE program has taught her not only the hazardous effects of drugs, but how to avoid high pressure situations where destructive decisions could be made.

"What I love the most about DARE, is that it helped me realize that most students are not using drugs and alcohol. It gave me the confidence to just say 'No,'" she said, speaking to a full auditorium at Tamaqua High School.The Tamaqua Elementary student was one of more than 150 who graduated from the DARE program Wednesday night and pledged to say no to drugs and alcohol.This year was the 26th edition of the DARE program in Tamaqua.Tamaqua School District and St. Jerome's Regional School have been partnering to teach fifth-graders to resist drugs, alcohol, and other destructive behavior for three decades.In the DARE program, Students have regular classes with a police officer who educates them on drugs and alcohol.They educate kids on the dangers of drugs and alcohol, but also about the importance of confidence and the ability to resist peer pressure."Their message is so important, and they do it in such a way that it is just contagious," Mary Ann Mansell, principal of St. Jerome's said.On Wednesday, students from each fifth-grade class at Tamaqua, West Penn and St. Jerome's got to read their class-winning essays, before viewing a positively-themed magic show.Students celebrated along with their officers - Cpl. Dwayne Hacker and Officer Michael Hobbs of the Tamaqua Police Department, and Sgt. Jason Lorah of the West Penn Township Police Department.But Mansell, who plans to retire from St. Jerome's after this year, reminded them of the importance of the program."Tonight you pledge to be drug free. As you go on your journey through life, remember to just say 'no,'" she said.