Waco Police Department implement New LEAD Program at Rapoport Academy

WACO, Texas ( FOX 44 ) — Remember the D.A.R.E. program and its iconic lion mascot from elementary school? In Waco, a fresh initiative called LEAD is taking its place, offering a new approach to teaching fourth graders about drug prevention and life skills.

The Law Enforcement Against Drugs (LEAD) program, an after-school initiative spearheaded by the Waco Police Department, has been making waves at Rapoport Academy.

Unlike traditional programs, LEAD focuses not only on resisting drugs but also on building crucial life skills such as identifying healthy versus toxic friendships and the importance of dependability.

“This organization trained us to become LEAD instructors, allowing us to teach life skills in our community,” said Cierra Shipley, a LEAD instructor.

Shipley highlighted the program’s interactive approach, which aims to engage students in meaningful ways. Fourth graders at Rapoport Academy are responding enthusiastically.

Anna Stoker, a student, said, “I am really excited on Thursdays because I like to earn the prizes when you volunteer and stuff. Also, I like if you do the homework, you can get something. So I always try to do the homework or answer a lot of questions.”

While some students, like Stoker, are motivated by the homework and prizes, others, like King Hayes, appreciate the personal connections they build with the police officers.

“When we’re here it’s like if something happens they can protect us,” Hayes said.

The LEAD program, held every Thursday after school, has become a weekly highlight for many students.

Shipley noted, “They’re really interactive. We get the kids talking, and they’re excited each week to come and learn with us. The kids get really excited to even meet the officers.”

Looking ahead, the Waco Police Department aims to expand the LEAD program to more schools across the community.

“The LEAD program is very popular on the East Coast, and we want to grow it here,” said Bryton Johnson, program coordinator.

With its focus on drug prevention and essential character-building skills, the LEAD program is set to impact Waco’s young students, helping them navigate their formative years with confidence and support from their local law enforcement.

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