Clueing In Parents

Combating the drug epidemic will take a united effort, especially from parents. Organize a presentation for them. Martin Walker Elementary School in Copperas Cove, Texas, had a police detective speak. He talked about several drugs and their effects on the body. He gave clues to identify drugs in the home and told parents the signs that might indicate their children are using drugs. If you hold a similar presentation, give each parent a “Join The Fight Against Drugs” Button to wear before you start. At the end, distribute the items in the “Join The Fight Against Drugs” Theme Kit for parents to take home and share with family members.

The Magic Of Music

Hans Herr Elementary School in Lampeter, Pennsylvania, turned to music to make its Red Ribbon Week a success. Organizers wanted students to “tune out drugs.” Pledge posters said “We promise to march to a drug free beat” and showed a marching band drummer. Children signed the posters, which were placed outside each classroom. Every morning, a gong rung over the loudspeaker. This got everyone’s attention for a mini lesson about drugs. A musical presentation always followed the lessons. These presentations consisted of performances by band members, the instrumental teacher, the band director, and chorus members. For a perfect accompaniment to a week of music at your school, try the “I Tune Out Drugs” Bookmark or the “I Tune Out Drugs” Value Packs.

Electing To Be Greener

This fall, you have the opportunity to help choose the President by casting a ballot. You also have the opportunity to help the environment by holding onto your Red Ribbon Week Celebration Balloons. Balloon releases create litter that spreads over miles. Wildlife can get caught in the strings or swallow the pieces. Try these Earth-friendlier activities:

• Write numbers on the balloons before distributing, then draw numbers to determine prize winners

• Have students run races while keeping a balloon between their knees

• Organize a balloon volleyball tournament.

Dancing Their Hearts Out

Panama Elementary School in Panama, Oklahoma, decided on the theme “Dance through life drug free” to let kids know that they can find things to do, such as dancing, that keep their minds and bodies fit and active (see picture on page 17). Then they won’t get caught up in something dangerous, such as drugs. The celebration week started with doing the twist in the gym while wearing pajamas and slippers. On Tuesday, students dressed up like their favorite types of dancers. The whole school took a break to dance that afternoon. Wednesday included classroom dance contests. The winners got to perform at Friday’s assembly, which also featured demonstrations by a dance instructor. If you’re thinking about a Red Ribbon Week of dancing, consider using the “I’ve Got Better Things To Do Than Drugs” Theme Kit and Buttons.