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Belen D.A.R.E. presenters ask council for books, swag and clearer budget to sustain program
Summary
Belen Police and Belen Schools described an expanded D.A.R.E. curriculum and requested supplies and modest funding — staff estimated roughly $500 for immediate book needs and asked the council for a detailed list so it can consider support.
Officers Miranda Gonzales and Joe Griego of the Belen Police Department, joined by Pauline Vallejos from Belen Schools, outlined the D.A.R.E. curriculum being taught in local classrooms and asked the council to consider supporting program materials and graduation items.
Speakers said the program now addresses peer pressure, vaping, suicide prevention and other topics beyond drugs. Officers and school staff described current inventory and replacement needs: "they need books because they are not returned," Officer Joe Griego said. Deputy/Teacher Vallejos estimated the current rough need for books at about $500 for the next set of play books and asked the council for a more detailed list so the governing body could assess funding levels.
Council members praised the effort and asked staff to prepare a bottom‑line estimate and itemized needs. The applicant and a Rasband representative later offered sponsorship for shirts and books.
