L.E.A.D. (Law Enforcement Against Drugs & Violence)

The Waldwick Police Department is proud to partner with our local schools through the L.E.A.D. (Law Enforcement Against Drugs & Violence) program. L.E.A.D. is a nationally recognized, evidence-based prevention program designed to equip students with the knowledge, confidence, and life skills needed to make safe, healthy, and responsible choices.

For more than a decade, L.E.A.D. has provided evidence-based drug and violence prevention education in classrooms and communities throughout the United States. Specially trained law enforcement officers deliver structured, age-appropriate lessons that help students develop the skills necessary to navigate real-life challenges. This is not a one-time presentation — L.E.A.D. provides sustained instruction that builds positive decision-making skills over time.

Through classroom instruction, Waldwick police officers work with students to encourage critical thinking, strengthen self-confidence, and promote positive relationships with peers, families, and the community. Officers serve not only as educators, but also as trusted mentors and positive role models for our youth.

What Students Learn

The L.E.A.D. curriculum focuses on helping students:

• Resist peer pressure and make responsible decisions

• Prevent drug, alcohol, and tobacco use

• Recognize and prevent bullying and violence

• Manage emotions and respond to challenges in a positive way

• Build self-confidence and leadership skills

• Develop effective communication and conflict-resolution skills

• Set goals and make choices that support their future success

• Practice respect, responsibility, and good citizenship

An Evidence-Based Approach

Research has shown that prevention programs like L.E.A.D. can significantly reduce risky behaviors, including:

75% — Reduction in Drug Use
60% — Reduction in Alcohol Misuse
50% — Reduction in Violence

Prevention changes outcomes — especially when it begins early.

Building Strong Community Partnerships

L.E.A.D. is more than a classroom program; it is a partnership between law enforcement, schools, families, and the community. By creating opportunities for positive interactions between students and police officers, the program helps foster trust, open communication, and mutual respect.

Through regular classroom visits and community engagement, Waldwick officers help students understand the importance of making positive choices, treating others with respect, and becoming responsible members of their community.

Our Commitment

The Waldwick Police Department is committed to investing in the success, safety, and well-being of our young people. Through the L.E.A.D. program, we strive to empower students with the confidence, knowledge, and skills they need to make positive decisions today and become responsible leaders of tomorrow.