We are excited to share that beginning with the 2025–2026 school year, Transylvania County Schools will be introducing the SHIELD Program for all 5th grade students. SHIELD is a new, updated initiative taught by our School Resource Officers and is designed to replace the D.A.R.E. program.

This engaging program provides students with age-appropriate lessons and practical tools to help them make safe, healthy choices. SHIELD focuses on key areas that impact today’s youth, including:

• Drug prevention

• Stranger safety

• Internet safety

• Peer mentoring

• Bullying prevention

We believe this program will strengthen the partnership between our schools, families, and law enforcement, while equipping students with important life skills. Thank you for your continued support as we work together to keep our children safe and prepared for the future.

Lesson 1 | Bill of Rights

• Lesson details

• Lesson materials

Lesson 2 | Tobacco

• Lesson details

• Discussion

• Lesson materials

Lesson 3 | Vaping

• Lesson details

• Lesson materials

Lesson 4 | Alcohol

• Lesson details

• Lesson materials

Lesson 5 | Online and Social Media Safety

• Lesson details

• Discussion

• Lesson materials

Lesson 6 | Over-the-Counter Medicines, Prescription Drugs & Illegal Drugs

• Lesson details

• Discussion

• Lesson materials

Lesson 7 | Marijuana

• Lesson details

• Lesson materials

• Officer notes

• Scenarios

Lesson 8 | Peer mentors

• Lesson details

• Peer mentor questions

Lesson 9 | Bullying

• Lesson details

• Lesson materials

• Bullying student activity sheet

• Bullying scenarios