Dear HISD Parent:

Today marks the beginning of Red Ribbon Week and I’m asking staff, students, parents, and the community to join me in recognizing the nation’s oldest and largest drug prevention awareness program.

Red Ribbon Week, which is celebrated annually October 23-31, has taken on national significance mobilizing communities to educate students and encourage participation in drug prevention activities. Wearing red ribbons during the month of October represents the pledge to live drug-free and honors all who have lost their lives in the fight against drugs.

This year's Red Ribbon Week theme is: Be Happy. Be Brave. Be Drug Free. Celebrate the week in your school community and raise awareness of living a drug free life by participating in the following:

Monday, October 26: Mask up Against Drugs
All HISD staff and students are encouraged to wear and post pictures online in their favorite mask.

Tuesday, October 27: Pair up Against Drugs
Team up with a buddy and show how you all support each other by dressing alike (Twin day).

Wednesday, October 28: Sock it To Drugs
Wear crazy socks to kick drugs out of our community.

Thursday, October 29: Shade Out Drugs and Peer Pressure
Take pictures in your favorite shades.

Friday, October 30: Team Up Against Drugs
Wear your favorite team's jersey.

Please take pictures and post using #RedRibbonWeek so we can show our support on social media. To find additional resources and ideas, both face-to-face and virtual, visit RedRibbon.org.

Sincerely,