R.A.D. Program

Introduction The National Park Service for many years has recognized the fact that many of the law enforcement problems rangers encounter in the parks are alcohol and drug related. It is also a fact that many of the repeat offenders are youths. Drug statistics show alcohol and drug abuse has increased among American students. Over 61% of high school seniors have used alcohol and or some other drug. In response to increasing concerns about the use of drugs in our national parks, the National Park Service, South East Region, Ranger Activities Division has developed Rangers Against Drugs (RAD). RAD was designed to promote interest and provide information to children about the National Park Service, to encourage children to develop positive attitudes and behaviors, and help prevent them from succumbing to alcohol and other drug use and involvement. The curriculum addresses learning objectives in keeping with those of the state departments of education and conforms with health education standards. National Park Service uniformed rangers and other interested employees not only serve as instructors, but as role models and mentors for children. They develop a rapport that promotes positive attitudes toward the ranger, the National Park Service and greater respect for the law. During RAD's first year (1992-1993), the curriculum was taught to more than 300 students in the Metropolitan Atlanta Elementary School system. Subsequently, other national parks are now offering the program in their community. Overview of Components The RAD program is designed to assist schools to reach out to children between the ages 10-15 and provide them with challenging materials to help them live healthy and drug-free lives. Components include: Ranger Guide - A booklet explaining the program, includes suggestions and eight lesson plans and activity worksheets designed to help instructors plan and guide the lessons. Activity Worksheets - An accompanying set of activity sheets, unbound in a folder to make local duplication easy. Parks as Classrooms Video - A VHS videocassette that shows what the National Park Service, Southeast Region is doing to support educational outreach within the classroom and park site visits. Growing Up Isn't Easy - A VHS videocassette teaches basic facts about alcohol, alcoholism, and what the risks are for children from alcoholic families. Provided by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. Michael's Journey - A VHS videocassette emphasizes mentoring process, community strengths, and extended family as possible protection for children. Provided by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. Poster - A strong, visual support for messages in the RAD program for use in schools. Special Note The Rangers Against Drugs program is similar to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, The Discover Kit: Positive Connections for Kids and the U.S. Department of Education program called Connections. The DARE America program is also endorsed by the National Park Service. These programs serves as important resources for school personnel trying to help children to remain drug-free. Frequently Asked Questions | Ask the Historian | Available Documents   Back To Top