Red Ribbon Week 2024: Owensboro schools are leading the charge in Kentucky’s participation in Red Ribbon Week 2024, an annual, nationwide campaign to prevent drug and alcohol abuse among young people. Schools across the Owensboro district are marking the week with a series of engaging activities designed to educate students on the dangers of drug abuse, guided by the theme, “Life is a movie, Film Drug Free.”

This year, Newton Parrish Elementary has adopted a creative approach to the campaign by hosting themed dress-up days, with each day centered around an important anti-drug lesson. The school’s administration sees this as an opportunity to engage students early on issues around drug and alcohol prevention. Public Information Officer Jared Revlett emphasized the importance of the campaign: “We’re seeing an increase in drug and alcohol abuse in the community, and it’s critical to teach these kids the dangers, so they can make informed decisions that set them up for successful, healthy futures.”

The National Center for Drug Abuse Statistics in Kentucky reports that in 2023 alone, over 24,000 children ages 12 to 17 reported drug use within the past month, highlighting the urgent need for preventive education. The goal of Red Ribbon Week in Owensboro is not only to inform students but to foster an environment where saying “no” to drugs becomes a shared commitment across the school community.

Both Owensboro Middle and Sutton Elementary are also participating, with support from teachers, parents, and local law enforcement, who aim to create an environment of trust and open communication. Throughout the week, students will participate in interactive sessions on the impact of drug use and hear stories from local leaders and counselors about living a drug-free life.

With a focus on early intervention, schools in Owensboro are setting a proactive example during Red Ribbon Week 2024. Parents, teachers, and community leaders are encouraged to use this week as an opportunity to open discussions at home about the choices and pressures young people face. For more information on Red Ribbon Week activities or resources, families can contact their local school’s administration.

By building these anti-drug values now, Owensboro schools hope to inspire students to make safe, healthy choices that carry them forward as leaders in their communities.