Caddo Parish fifth-graders at seven local schools will celebrate their successful completion of the Drug Abuse Resistance Education (D.A.R.E.) program with graduation ceremonies starting Monday, said Sheriff Steve Prator.

Caddo deputies have spent the past 17 weeks teaching the D.A.R.E. curriculum at Caddo Parish schools. The program teaches youngsters how to build self-esteem, learn how to deal effectively with unwanted peer pressure, and find healthy alternatives to drugs, alcohol, violence and gangs.

Ceremonies are scheduled as follows:

• May 13, 1 p.m., First Baptist Church School
• May 14, 1 p.m., St. Joseph School
• May 14, 1 p.m., Herndon Magnet
• May 16, 12:45 p.m., Walnut Hill Elementary
• May 16, 1 p.m., Mooringsport Elementary
• May 17, 11 a.m., Southfield School
• June 5, 1 p.m., Oil City Elementary