LOCAL SCHOOLS PROMOTE DRUG-FREE MESSAGE

HOPKINSVILLE -- To help younger students realize the importance of
drug education, Highland and Crofton elementary schools sponsored
theme days as part of Red Ribbon Week Oct. 25-29.

On Monday, they wore red. Tuesday, they wore their craziest socks or
socks that didn't match, as they "socked it to drugs." Wednesday, they
wore their favorite hats and "put a cap on drugs." Thursday, they "put
drugs to sleep" by wearing their favorite pajamas. Friday was "say boo
to drugs day."

Throughout the week, students and staff wore red "friendship
bracelets." Older students signed drug-free pledge cards. Those who
signed pledges and wore their bracelets were awarded a prize at the
end of the week.

"With elementary-age children, we want to get drug awareness to them
in a fun way," said Lynne Prince, family resource coordinator at
Highland and Crofton.

"It's not smart to do drugs is the message we want to get across. We
do different things for older kids who know about drugs. We encourage
them to say no, to never get involved with drugs. We encourage awareness."

Throughout the Christian County public school system, activities
focused on the level of students to be reached as the message to stay
drug-free was spread.

In the elementary schools, there were art contests with a district
competition also held.

Candy and pencils featuring drug-free messages were distributed at all
levels and prizes awarded to those who participated in special events
or wore their red ribbons. Banners and posters throughout the district
reminded students why they were wearing red and dressing in theme apparel.

Tulip bulbs planted now will bloom into red tulips as a drug-free
reminder in April, during National Alcohol Awareness Month.

Christian County Middle School had a red ribbon day, a "team up
against drugs" day, a red shirt day, and a "living drug free is no
sweat day." Students included facts and figures on drug and alcohol
abuse during morning announcements.

"We want to do whatever we can to make them more aware every day,"
said Nat Adams, of CCMS' youth service center. "We're continually
trying to update the kids."

Red Ribbon Week was started in 1985, after drug traffickers in Mexico
murdered Kiki Camarena, a Drug Enforcement Administration agent. The
mission of the Red Ribbon Campaign is to present a unified and visible
commitment toward the creation of a drug-free America, according to
the National Family Partnership Web site. Wearing and displaying red
ribbons serves as a symbol of intolerance toward the use of drugs.

The National Family Partnership uses Red Ribbon Week as a way for
people and communities to take a visible stand against drugs and show
their personal commitment to a drug-free lifestyle.