By Ms. Gayle Voltz
The Varnett School East celebrated the Oct. 22-26 week of drug prevention by wearing red to support the cause. Students and staff had a great time socking it to drugs by also wearing crazy and mismatched socks (Video)
The cool day was Wednesday, Oct. 24, when we all wore shades to throw shade at using drugs. On Thursday, Oct. 25, the staff and students turned their backs on drugs by wearing their clothes backward.
The last day, Friday, Oct. 26, was western wear day when real cowboys and cowgirls stood up against drug usage. What a way to spend the week remembering the struggle against drug abuse.
The concept of parental-inspired drug-free families goes back to 1980 when the National Family Partnership, formerly the National Federation of Parents for Drug-Free Youth, was established as a grassroots, nonprofit organization by a handful of concerned and determined parents who were convinced they should begin to play a leadership role in drug prevention.
Today, Red Ribbon Week is nationally recognized and celebrated, helping to preserve Special Agent Enrique "Kiki" Camarena's memory and further the cause for which he gave his life. The Drug Enforcement Administration says the Red Ribbon campaign also became a symbol of support for DEA's efforts to reduce demand for drugs through prevention and education programs.
Socking it to drugs with a jazzy beat! (Video)
By wearing a red ribbon during the last week in October, Americans demonstrate their ardent opposition to drugs. They pay homage not only to Special Agent Camarena, but to all men and women who have made the ultimate sacrifice in support of our nation's struggle against drug trafficking and abuse.
Ms. Voltz is director of The Varnett School East
Photos by Ms. Latricia Jones and Ms, Gayle Voltz
Videos by Ms. Gayle Voltz