Louise Van Meter Elementary School Principal Roseanne Adona said that each day of the week Oct. 20­24 there is a red ribbon activity planned for students. Students could wear sunglasses to school on Oct. 20 to support the message "I don't see drugs in my future." Then, Oct. 21 they will wear hats to school to advocate "Hats off to being drug-free."

The theme continues on Oct. 22, Adona said, as the children decorate their classroom doors to symbolize they are "closing the door on drugs." They also have the option of wearing T-shirts backwards to demonstrate they are "turning their backs on drugs," and red wristbands bearing anti-drugs phrases will be distributed.

On Oct. 23, the students will tie red ribbons around campus, and wear two different-colored socks to school supporting the message: "Sock it to drugs." The classrooms are also each responsible for cooperatively coming up with three ideas about making good choices in staying healthy. The last day, Oct. 24, students will wear red clothing, and can bring a small, stuffed animal to school for a "Hugs not drugs" motto.

But more than dwelling on anti-drug awareness, which many elementary students don't completely understand, Adona said the school is encouraging staying fit, eating healthy and getting enough sleep—making positive choices. Even though October and March are both intended to be drug-free months, Adona said it shouldn't be a one- or two-week event.

"We are constantly talking about healthy choices and healthy lifestyles," she said.

Principal Ken Lawrence-Emanuel said Raymond J. Fisher Middle School is following the theme "Friends don't let friends do drugs" also Oct. 20­24. Student Activities Director Keri McCormick and the school's student council have a fun-filled schedule planned of week-long activities that support this theme. The activities range from wearing sunglasses to "shade out drugs" to sporting a team or school jersey to "team up against drugs."

Blossom Hill Elementary School will be celebrating Red Ribbon Week Oct. 27­30 in a similar fashion. The school will be decorated with red and white balloons and banners, and students can wear red clothing to school.

"Our goal is for them to develop good thinking skills and resistance strategies so they have healthy lifestyles," said Principal Charlotte Basinger.

Red Ribbon Week parent coordinator and volunteer Donna Starov said the kids will also participate in a rally during which they can sign a pledge to celebrate a drug-free life.