Apr 9, 2008 2:58 pm US/Eastern
DEA Teaches Students Important Lessons For LIfe
MIAMI (CBS4) ―
At Brentwood Elementary School in Miami Gardens, fourth and fifth graders learned an important lesson Wednesday. That is not unusual, but the teachers were. They're agents with the Miami office of the Drug Enforcement Administration, and they have adopted the school as part of an anti-drug, anti-violence program.
The youngsters proudly wore their allegiance to the program, sporting shirts that proclaimed, "I have the power to be drug free." It's an attitude that could save their lives one day, a point driven home by an agent who reminded them that harm can come in many forms.
Everyone has heard about illicit drugs on the street, but these schoolchildren are being taught that danger can also come neatly packaged in a prescription drug bottle.
"This is very good for us children to know about violence and drugs, and to do well in school and get an education," said fifth grader Delaura Beckford..
That's precisely the message the DEA is sharing, with the hope that it will make a difference in the years to come.
Mark Trouville is the special agent in charge of the Miami DEA office, and sums up the challenge this way.
"We're going to talk to them about gangs and violence, about the dangers of drugs, and the importance of making good decisions in their lives," said Trouville.
For the next six weeks, Brentwood students will focus on anti-drug essays and projects. They'll be treated to a field trip and, most importantly, have a chance to ask questions, share their concerns, and seek guidance. If the best drug enforcement is anti-drug education, then schools are the ideal place to start.
Fifth grader Kamari Wilkinson put the program in perspective.
"They're trying to stop killing and drugs around the world so kids can be safe for a long time," he said.
A thoughtful comment and a reminder that our future is best served by youngsters willing to share their lessons in a positive, powerful way.
(© MMIX, CBS Broadcasting Inc. All Rights Reserved.)
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