Red Ribbon Week
by Kim Jones
November 03, 2008
Elsberry Schools along with the rest of the nation celebrated Red Ribbon Week (RRW) last week with numerous activities for the students. RRW brings millions of people together to raise awareness regarding the need for alcohol, tobacco and other drug and violence prevention, early intervention and treatment services. This campaign is the largest most visible prevention awareness campaign observed annually in the United States.
Everyday during the week all students in the district followed a themed day of some type that different attire could be worn. Monday was “Square off against Drugs” with country attire being worn; Tuesday was “Band against Drugs” where students could wear some type of headband or bandana; Wednesday was “Team up Against Drugs” and students wore team jerseys; Thursday was “Red Day” with all students wear red and red bracelets were handed out to every students; and finally on Friday, students wore crazy ties to signify “Don’t get tied up in Drugs”. On Thursday Middle School Counselor, Toni Wankel, put into motion for grades K-8 to go to the soccer field and spell out “Drug Free” with all their red clothing on and then AirEvac Helicopter was going to fly over and take photographs, but do to unforeseen circumstances the helicopter was unable to fly over so the students left disappointed.
The Elementary building started their week off with an assembly by Abra-Kid-Abra. This show focused on helping kids make good decision not to use drugs or alcohol through the use of magic, juggling and humor.
The middle school students were invited to a Red Ribbon Fun Fair to show them there are better things to do than drugs. With the supervision of Middle School teachers and staff the students enjoyed the following games and activities: Inflatable Batman Obstacle Course, Inflatable bounce house, inflatable giant slide, putt putt golf, turkey bowling, face painting, marshmallow catch, karaoke and concession stand.
High School students were treated to decorated hallways of red and white banners and red bows to remind them of the theme week. Also, on the parking lot for students to observe was wrecked car to draw attention to what could happen if you drive while using drugs and alcohol.
A federal Drug Free Grant that the school is eligible for funds many activities for RRW. Building counselors, Donna Kientzy, Toni Wankel and Julie Basler are involved in the planning of many of these activities. Drug-Free Coordinator for the district is Kim Jones
