LAREDO, Texas (KGNS) – The largest drug prevention campaign in the US is underway. Here in Laredo, schools are participating in student awareness.

From cheers to learning and lots of games, Alma Pierce Elementary 5th graders came together to celebrate Red Ribbon Week.

The message is very clear; to make healthy decisions and be aware of the consequences of drug use.

The Webb County Sheriff’s Office goes from school to school giving presentations on staying drug free.

Not only were the students taught about the consequences of drug use, but they were also quizzed about it.

Alma Pierce Elementary student Zoe Garcia noted, “Don’t trust strangers and don’t go with them. Always say “Stranger Danger” and let your parents check your candy. You don’t know what might be in them, like needles or things that might hurt you, and also don’t go into the medicine cabinet because it might be expired and make you really sick.”

They were also taught the difference between prescription and street drugs.

Another student, Jose Mendoza, remarked, “What to do if someone is pressuring you and that there are also some good drugs, like your medicine and all kinds of things.”

Red Ribbon Week is a symbol of commitment and education about children’s drugs.

The sheriff’s office says starting to educate children at a young age could prevent use as they grow older.

“I asked the counselor to take the fifth graders out because next year is a very important year for them. They need to know and learn about peer pressure and choosing their friends when they go to middle school,” said Webb County Constable for Pct. 1, Lt. Jonathan Gonzalez.

Alma Pierce wasn’t the only school to participate in the event, other Laredo students pledged to stay drug-free.

Older students were able to hear about the different resources available to prevent and combat addiction.

The national Red Ribbon Week movement began many years ago after drug enforcement agent Enrique “Kiki” Camarena was killed in Mexico in 1985 while fighting illegal drugs and cartels.

To keep her memory alive, people started wearing red ribbons to encourage children to participate in drug prevention activities.

Red Ribbon Week takes place every year between October 23rd and October 31st.

For more titles, click Here.

Copyright 2024 KGNS. All rights reserved.