Fifth and sixth graders from around the area toured the Stearns County Jail and other downtown facilities Wednesday morning. 

Eight schools participated in the tour as a part of DARE, or Drug AbuseResistance Education. Students were able to visit with an inmate at Stearns County Jail, see the 911 Dispatch Center and emergency vehicle garage, and watch a court proceeding. 

Participating schools include: Albany Elementary, Sauk Centre Holy Family, Albany Holy Family, St. Mary’s Help of Christians- St. Agusta, All Saints Academy- St. Joseph, Sacred Heary- Freeport, St. Mary’s- Melrose, and Belgrade-Brooten Elementary. 

Stearns County has been hosting the tours for the past fifteen years.

Stearns County says DARE is a program designed to help students resist drugs and make smart choices when being faced with issues like peer pressure, bullying and self-esteem.

Photo Credit: Stearns County