Caddo Parish fifth-graders at six local schools are celebrating their successful completion of the Drug Abuse Resistance Education (D.A.R.E.) program with graduation ceremonies, 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 5, 1 p.m., Herndon Magnet;

May 7, 1 p.m., Mooringsport Elementary;

May 11, 1 p.m., First Baptist Church School;

May 11, 1:30 p.m., Southfield School; and

May 12, 1 p.m., St. Joseph Catholic School.

Walnut Hill Elementary students graduated on April 21.