Red Ribbon Week: Why It Matters 

Red Ribbon Week is the time when students and teachers celebrate a week of being drug-free. It's a week where schools teach us, the students, how to say no to drugs so we won’t harm our bodies and brains. Every year, schools participate in this activity so that students learn the dangers of drugs.

Red Ribbon Week is a time when schools take the opportunity to teach students why they should avoid drugs. For instance, many schools show videos or bring guest speakers who explain why drugs are bad. Moreover, when students are educated about drugs, they avoid situations that could involve drug use. Mr. Magana, a vice principal at Fitz Intermediate, states, “Students are now aware of the danger of drugs and vaping; with this information, students are now equipped to make good decisions.” As you can see, this quote means that students use the information they learned to stay away from unhealthy and harmful situations.

Red Ribbon Week teaches students not to follow social media’s example. For example, many young adults post pictures or videos of themselves vaping or smoking cigarettes, which people think looks fun and cool. This is important because posts like these influence teens or young kids into believing that drug use is not bad for the body. It shows us that without students being well educated, they might follow the path of vaping and could possibly ruin their future. Ms. Chin, the ASB teacher, agrees. She states, “Students need to be aware that drugs are harmful, regardless of the false advertising that social media spreads.” The fact that Red Ribbon Week teaches the real dangers reveals that schools want students to have truthful information. All of this proves that Red Ribbon week supports students to think for themselves and ignore being lied to by social media.

Another reason Red Ribbon Week is important is that it teaches students ways of coping with their stress in healthy ways. We can see this when teachers talk about real and positive things like exercising, talking to someone you trust and feel comfortable around, or taking breaks when you feel crushed. For instance, schools remind students that using drugs is not a safe or good way to deal with problems. It is important because many students are under pressure and need safe options. It shows us that Red Ribbon Week teaches students greater ways of overcoming without turning to hurtful decisions.

In conclusion, Red Ribbon Week is important for teaching students about the real dangers of drugs. It also teaches students to make safe and responsible choices. This week, remind students not be influenced by false messages on social media. Altogether, Red Ribbon Week encourages all to stay drug-free and protect their futures.