05/08/2026
A successful 2026 D.A.R.E Day!!!
Beginning at 9:00 AM at the Oswego Ks Community Building, students and staff from across Labette County came together for the 2026 D.A.R.E. Day event. Fifth graders from multiple schools had the opportunity to learn important lessons about making positive choices, standing against peer pressure, and creating safer communities for everyone.
One of the highlights of the day was watching the teamwork and dedication displayed by the Oswego Police Department K9 Unit and the Labette County Sheriff’s Office K9 Unit. Oswego Police Department K9 Tupac alongside Officer Kessler, and Labette County Sheriff’s Office K9 Champ alongside Deputy Eichinger, put on demonstrations that showcased not only the incredible abilities of our K9 partners, but also the strong bond, trust, and discipline that exists between handlers and their dogs. Chief Bond was also in attendance supporting the event and helping make the day a success for our youth and community. Might we add, he received over 20 apprehension bites!
These demonstrations are more than just exciting to watch, they give our young students an opportunity to see law enforcement in a positive and personal way. Events like D.A.R.E. Day help build relationships, trust, and understanding between officers and the next generation.
A statement from Officer Kessler:
“Law enforcement K9’s are much more than police dogs, they are partners, protectors, and members of our law enforcement family. K9’s like Tupac and Champ help keep our communities safe every single day, whether it’s locating suspects, tracking missing persons, detecting narcotics, or simply creating positive interactions with the public. Seeing the excitement and engagement from the fifth graders today reminds us why these events matter so much. These kids are our future, and if we can leave them with a positive experience, inspire respect, trust, and confidence, then we’ve done something meaningful. We are incredibly thankful to everyone who attended and helped make this year’s D.A.R.E. Day such a success!”
A huge thank you goes out to all organizers, teachers, staff, students, law enforcement personnel, and community members who helped make today possible. The continued support and involvement from our communities is what makes Labette County such a special and safe place! It was an everlasting memory to be a part of!