CLARK MEMORIAL STUDENTS HOLD ELECTION

Clark Memorial students got in on the election excitement this week
when they held a mock election for president while also addressing the
theme, "Elect to Be Drug Free."

Kathy Knies, Clark Memorial School Counselor, planned "Red Ribbon
Week" Oct. 25-29 with plenty of fun events each day of the week for
students. The point was to teach students the basics of electing a
president as well as to stress the importance of staying drug-free.

Events during the week included, "Build a Wall Against Drugs" where
students were invited to sign a paper brick pledging to stay drug-free
which they stacked on the school walls.

Tuesday was Election Day when students participated in a mock election
for president. Clark Memorial Student Council members were in charge
of running the election booths while first through sixth graders cast
their choice for president. Results of the voting were: 260 Bush and
215 Kerry.

Wednesday was "Red Ribbon Day." Students received a red ribbon and
were encouraged to wear red clothing to show their commitment to
staying drug-free.

Thursday was, "Do the Write Thing - Say No to Drugs" day. Students
received a red ribbon pencil and wrote their thoughts telling why
there are better things to do than drugs.

The week concluded with "Say Boo to Drugs," a grand finale balloon
launch that fit in with the theme of staying "Drug Free."

The week was an overall success, a combination of fun and hands-on
learning, the kind of learning that especially sticks with students
while also providing a refreshing escape from the customary classroom
work.