Educational Insights

…developing individuals to meet the challenges of a global community

 RED RIBBON WEEK-

2011

            This week, millions of people across the country will join hands to show their unified support in fighting substance abuse and illegal drug use. Red Ribbon Week began in 1988, as a result of the sacrifices made by U. S. Drug Enforcement Administration agent Enrique "Kiki" Camarena who was killed in 1985 fighting in the drug war.

            Garden County Schools will celebrate in a variety of ways to remind our youth how important it is to take a positive stand against underage drinking and illegal drug use. Education about the dangers of drug and alcohol abuse will be provided to students at all sites. Red ribbons will be worn to remind others of the sacrifice Kiki made fighting illegal drug use in Mexico over 25 years ago. Red balloons will be released launching the week's activities at the Garden County Rest Home by elementary students on Monday.

            The health, legal, and social consequences of underage alcohol, tobacco, and drug use cannot be ignored (Bahan, Panhandle Prevention Coalition). According to Bahan, "Many behavioral problems can be associated with either drug or alcohol use."

            The problems include increased school absence rates and poor or failing grades, social problems, such as fighting or not participating in positive youth activities, unwanted, unplanned, and unprotected sexual activity, physical or sexual assaults, a higher risk for suicide and homicide, and alcohol-related car crashes. (Scottsbluff Star Herald, 10/22/11)

            Youth health is also threatened by unintentional injuries resulting from drug/alcohol use such as burns, falls or accidentally drowning, memory and concentration problems, changes in brain development, and possible death from alcohol poisoning.

            Underage drinking and drug use is everyone's problem and has negative lifelong implications for our youth. Increased awareness and education are essential in helping our students make healthier choices for their future.

            For more information about drug/alcohol prevention, call your local school or Region 1 Behavioral Health Authority (308.633.2092) or visit the Panhandle Prevention Coalition on Facebook at http://www.facebook.com/panhandlepreventioncoaltion.

            We owe it to our children to challenge the social and cultural norms regarding alcohol and drug abuse. Become involved in Red Ribbon Week and take a stand against underage drinking!

-Dr. Paula Sissel,

Superintendent/Elementary Principal