Wisconsin DARE Officers Association Logo, a filled-in black Wisconsin backdrop with capital D.A.R.E. in red lettering across.WI D.A.R.E.Officers Association

Wisconsin State D.A.R.E. Awards

The people behind the program

Every year, the association honors the officers whose classrooms, hallways, and communities are stronger because of them, and we send our retiring officers off with the thanks they deserve.

2026 Awards

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

Officer Tony Fus — New Berlin Police Department

Officer Fus is also an excellent teacher, deftly navigating how to tackle tough topics with our youth and give students the opportunity to rise to the occasion and grow in their maturity. The students value an adult being real with them in an age-appropriate way, which engenders trust and respect as a natural outgrowth of how Officer Fus carries himself and treats others.

— Ms. Laske, Teacher at Holy Apostles

2026 Awards

D.A.R.E. Officer Retirees

  • Kim Unger Waukesha County Sheriff's Office
  • Sheriff Theresa Chrisman Florence County Sheriff's Office
  • Jackie Dunlap Ashwaubenon Public Safety
  • Jay Weber Menomonee Falls Police Department (Not pictured)

Thank you for years of guiding, inspiring, and protecting our children. Your legacy lives on in every wise choice they make.

2025 Awards

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

Officer Toni Olson & K9 Archie — Germantown Police Department

What sets Officer Olson apart is not only her professionalism but also her personal commitment to the D.A.R.E. mission and to our kids. She works daily to equip the next generation with the tools they need to make positive decisions and lead healthy lives.

— Captain Penny Schmitt, Germantown Police Department

Know an officer who deserves the spotlight?

Nominations for D.A.R.E. Officer of the Year come from teachers, administrators, fellow officers, and community members. Keep an eye on our Facebook group and conference announcements for nomination windows.

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