Elementary Hosts Red Ribbon Week
by Kallie Edins
On the week of October 26, Pierce Elementary School will be hosting Red Ribbon week as a way to educate students about the harmful effects of tobacco and other drug abuse can have on a person.
Red Ribbon is the nation's oldest and largest drug prevention awareness program that is annually held in October in the United States. It targets drug, alcohol, tobacco, and other drugs and violence to spread awareness. It began as a tribute to fallen DEA special agent Enrique Camerena in 1985.
Elementary principal Trent Suehl says, “During Red Ribbon week, we are hoping that the students will learn about the danger of drugs and that this will cause them to make a commitment to a safe, healthy, and drug-free lifestyle.”
The students will be dressing up the week of October 26 as a way to get the students involved.
On Monday the students will be encouraged to wear neon colors because the slogan for Monday is “Too Bright to Do Drugs.” Tuesday the phrase is “Team Up Against Drugs” so students are encouraged to wear their favorite team or sports uniform. On Wednesday it’s “Too cool to Do Drugs” so students should wear sunglasses. Thursday students should wear weather appropriate pajamas for Thursday's phrase “Follow your dreams.” Lastly, on Friday the saying is “Say Boo to Drugs” so students can wear their Halloween costume to school.
Guidance counselor Denise Bruland, who helps organize Red Ribbon week says, “I will also be going around to classrooms to make pledges and give them prizes everyday for pledging to be drug free and kids will also be able to sign a drug free banner.”
Red Ribbon week is October 26-30.