In the upcoming days, Columbia County students will be engaging with drug prevention education.
At the Columbia County School District (CCSD) Board of Education’s work session meeting on Tuesday night, Director of Student Support, Michael Johnson, shared information about the observance of Red Ribbon Week in all district schools beginning on Wednesday, Oct. 23.
Red Ribbon Week (RRW) is a campaign aiming to prevent drug use in youth.
Drug prevention activities
Elementary, middle and high schools across the district will be participating in a variety of on-topic activities including creating pledge walls or banners, competing in school-wide essay or poster contests and attending Red Ribbon Rallies.
“This is an important time when we can come together to renew our community, to promote a drug-free and healthy lifestyle for youth and community,” said Johnson. “Red Ribbon Week is a perfect opportunity to start and continue conversations about tough topics like drug use.”
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Red Ribbon Week history
RRW’s roots trace back to 1985 following the death of a Drug Enforcement Administration Agent, Enrique Camarena. According to Johnson, people started wearing red ribbons to “symbolize [Camarena’s] commitment to raise awareness” for drug prevention.
Bullying prevention month
Johnson noted that October is also recognized as National Bullying Prevention Month, and said that CCSD students will be presented with anti-bullying education throughout the rest of the month.
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“We’re working to keep our students engaged, enriched and inspired as we educate them on drug prevention and bullying prevention,” said Johnson.
CCSD Resources
The Columbia County School District has an anonymous tip hotline which can be called at 706-541-3600 to report suspicious activity, potential drug use or bullying incidents.
