My name is Cpl. Dora Bullock. I am a D.A.R.E. Offcer and School Resource Offcer in Craven County. I am honored to write this letter in full support of nominating Mrs. Ashley Faulkenberry, Principal at Trent Park Elementary, for NCDOA Educator of the Year.

have worked as a School Resource Officer at Trent Park for three years, with Mrs. Faulkenbeny as the principal. Mrs. Faulkenberry is fruly invested in the success of every student at her school. She works hard every day to make sure that every student, teacher, staff member, and parent has what they need to succeed. Mrs. Faulkenberry understands the hue meaning of the phrase "it takes a village" and she applies that belief to all of her work. She does this through her support of every person that walks through the doors of her school, no matter what their title or responsibilities may be. Mrs. Faulkenberry l<nows how to use the strengths of all those around her to create an amazing learning environment for the students at Trent Park Elementary.

From the first day I came to Trent Park, I have had nothing but positive and unwavering support from Mrs. Faulkenberry. Even before I became a D.A.R.E. Instructor, Mrs. Faulkenberry had me teaching safety classes to the students (internet safety, bus safety, stranger danger, and more). She recognizes the importance of each student building a positive relationship with law enforcement, and she does all she can to ensure that it happens.

When it comes to D.A.R.E., Mrs. Faulkenbeny is unwavering in her belief of the program. Whatever I need to be successful, she sees that it gets done. From changing class schedules around, to lending me to other schools to teach D.A.R.E., to donating learning supplies, to the promotion of the D.A.R.E. Program to families and our community, Mrs. Faulkenberry is on top of it. It is clear that her true intention is to see the D.A.R.E. program become, and remain, a huge success in all Craven County Schools. She even helped me promote our first annual D.A.R.E. to Slime fundraiser, and led Trent Park to win 1st place. She has been fully willing to get slimed every year.. .and I can say first hand, that is quite the experience!

I am often told by other SROs and by my command staff that I am lucky to have such an amazing principal to work with. This nomination comes, not just from me, but from many of my fellow D.A.R.E. instructors who feel that she is more than worthy of this. If every school in Craven County had a principal as hard-working, dedicated, and selfless as Ashley Faulkenbeny, the D.A.R.E. Program would flourish beyond expectation in our school district!

Thank you for taking the time to read this letter, and consider Mrs. Ashley Faulkenberry as the 2024 NCDOA Educator of the Year!

N.C. D.A.R.E. Educator of the Year award

NC D.A.R.E. Officer of Year

Chief J. Adam Stanley is a prominent figure in law enforcement, known for his leadership as the Chief of the Shallotte Police Department and his role as a past President of the North Carolina DARE Association. His career has been marked by dedication to community policing and drug prevention initiatives, making him a respected and influential leader in the field.

In order to understand the significance of Chief J. Adam Stanley, it is important to examine the historical context in which he has operated. Law enforcement has evolved significantly over the years, with a shift towards community-oriented policing and prevention programs. Chief Stanley's commitment to these values is evident in his involvement with the Drug Abuse Resistance Education (DARE) program, which aims to educate youth about the dangers of drug use and violence.

As the Chief of the Shallotte Police Department, Chief Stanley has implemented innovative strategies to address crime and build relationships with the community. Under his leadership, the department has prioritized community engagement and proactive policing tactics, which have led to a decrease in crime rates and increased trust between law enforcement and residents.

Furthermore, Chief Stanley's tenure as the President of the North Carolina DARE Association highlights his dedication to drug prevention efforts on a larger scale. Through this role, he has worked to expand the reach of DARE programs across the state, empowering more youth to make informed decisions and resist peer pressure to engage in risky behavior.

Key figures who have influenced Chief J. Adam Stanley's determination are the late Chief Deputy Mike Adkins and Jeff Branch, both Past Presidents, both long-time advocates for community policing and drug prevention efforts. Both Mike and Jeff have been mentors to Chief Stanley, imparting valuable knowledge and insights that have shaped his approach to law enforcement. Together, they have collaborated on various initiatives to combat drug abuse and support at-risk youth in the community.

​I am writing to enthusiastically recommend Ashley Faulkenberry, Principal of Trent Park Elementary Schools for the DARE Educator of the Year award. In my capacity as Superintendent of Craven County Schools, I have had the privilege of working closely with Ms. Faulkenberry and it is with great confidence that I nominate her for this esteemed recognition.

Ms. Faulkenberry has consistently demonstrated an exceptional commitment to the principles and objectives of the DARE (Drug Abuse Resistance Education) program. Her passion for educating young people about the dangers of substance abuse and empowering them to make informed, responsible choices is truly commendable. Through her support of the SROs, genuine rapport with students, and a deep understanding of the issues at hand, Ms. Faulkenberry has made a significant impact on the lives of countless students in our community.

One of Ms. Faulkenberry's greatest strengths is their ability to support the DARE curriculum to meet the unique needs of diverse student populations. Her school is filled with English Language Learners, and she approaches this challenge as an opportunity. She works to foster strong relationships between the SROs and the students. She truly understands the importance of the DARE program. Ms. Faulkenberry possesses a rare combination of empathy, patience, and leadership, which enables her to effectively engage students from various backgrounds and create a supportive learning environment where every voice is heard and valued, which contributes to the success of the DARE program at her school. Furthermore, Ms.. Faulkenberry consistently goes above and beyond to collaborate with SROs, DARE Instructors and other local stakeholders to advocate for policies that promote drug prevention and youth development.

I have had the privilege of observing Ashley Faulkenberry in action, and it is evident that her dedication to the well-being of the whole child extends far beyond the classroom. She serves not only as a principal and DARE supporter, but as a mentor, role model, and advocate for positive change in our community. Ms. Faulkenberry's impact on our students' lives is immeasurable, and her support of the implementation of the DARE program in her schools is deserving of recognition and celebration.

In conclusion, I wholeheartedly endorse Ashley Faulkenberry, Principal of Trent Park Elementary School as the DARE Educator of the Year. Her unwavering dedication, outstanding leadership, and profound commitment to the mission of DARE makes her an ideal candidate for this honor. I am confident that Ms. Faulkenberry will continue to work with our SROs and Dare Officers to inspire and empower future generations to lead healthy, drug-free lives.

Thank you for considering my recommendation. Please feel free to contact me if you require any further information.

Glen Mowery Executive of the Year

I have the privilege to recommend Sergeant Tyler Rowe as Dare Officer of the year. Sergeant Rowe started teaching Dare around August of 2013 after his completion of Dare school. Sergeant Rowe's entire career has been devoted to being a School Resource Officer and Dare Officer. He has made a positive impact on the youth in our County. When Sergeant Rowe is out in the community kids will yell his name just to get his attention.

Sergeant Rowe is responsible for teaching Dare at all seven elementary schools in Alexander County. I attend all of the Dare graduations that I can. I see how Sergeant Rowe interacts with the youth. At every Dare graduation Sergeant Rowe will say I love these kids. I know he truly means that statement. I also believe that the kids love him. Just today I was at a Dare graduation at Ellendale Elementary School where students brought gifts for Sergeant Rowe to be placed in a basket in appreciation. Ms. Monica Anderson had this to say about Sergeant Rowe "here is a role model for you to follow."

I believe that our Dare Program has made a difference in Alexander County with the guidance of Sergeant Rowe.

In addition, Chief Stanley has also worked closely with other influential individuals in the field of law enforcement and drug prevention. These partnerships have been instrumental in expanding the reach of DARE programs and advocating for policies that support community-oriented policing strategies.

From a positive perspective, Chief J. Adam Stanley's leadership has had a tangible impact on the communities he serves. His emphasis on building trust and collaboration with residents has led to a more inclusive and effective approach to crime prevention. By prioritizing prevention and education, Chief Stanley has empowered youth to make positive choices and resist negative influences.

Despite any criticism, Chief J. Adam Stanley's commitment to community policing and drug prevention remains unwavering. His dedication to building relationships and advocating for youth empowerment sets a positive example for law enforcement leaders across the country.

Looking ahead, the future of Chief J. Adam Stanley's work will likely involve continued efforts to enhance community engagement and prevention strategies. He will likely seek to adapt to changing societal needs and emerging challenges, while staying true to his core values of service and integrity.

In conclusion, Chief J. Adam Stanley's leadership as the Chief of the Shallotte Police Department and past President of the North Carolina DARE Association has had a significant impact on law enforcement and drug prevention efforts. Through his dedication to community policing and youth empowerment, he has become a respected and influential figure in the field. With ongoing commitment to building relationships and advocating for positive change, Chief Stanley is poised to continue making a

North Carolina D.A.R.E Officers Association​