DeSoto Independent School District will join schools and
communities across the country in observing Red Ribbon Week®, October 27–31,
2025, as part of the nation’s oldest and largest drug prevention campaign.
“Red Ribbon Week is an opportunity to educate students about
the realities and risks associated with drug use while empowering them to make
choices that keep them healthy and on track to reach their dreams,” said Dr.
Anita Perry, DeSoto ISD Executive Director of College, Career and Military
Readiness and Counseling Services. “When we engage students in prevention
and encourage open conversations at home, we create the foundation for their
long-term success.”
Red Ribbon Week was first established in 1985 following the
death of the Drug Enforcement Agency’s Enrique “Kiki” Camarena, an agent
who was killed while working to dismantle drug trafficking operations. His
sacrifice inspired communities across America to take a united stand against
drug use, beginning with wearing red ribbons to honor his memory. Since then,
the observance has become a nationwide campaign that reaches millions of
students each year with the message to live healthy, safe, and drug-free lives.
The purpose of Red Ribbon Week in schools is to raise
awareness about the dangers of drug use and to empower students with the
knowledge and skills they need to make positive, healthy choices. According to
national studies, early exposure to drugs significantly increases the risk of
substance dependency, health problems, and adverse impacts on student
achievement and attainment of future goals. Drug use is linked to higher
absenteeism, lower academic performance, and increased dropout rates—factors
that can derail students’ progress toward college, careers, and lifelong
success.
“Substance use can have devastating effects on students’
academic achievement and future opportunities,” said Dr. Gene Morrow, DeSoto
ISD Executive Director of Student and Staff Support Services. “By raising
awareness early and often, we help students understand the consequences and
support them in making informed, positive choices.”
Throughout the week, all DeSoto ISD campuses (PK–12)
will host themed activities, classroom discussions, and interactive programming
to encourage healthy lifestyles and positive decision-making. Students will
wear red ribbons and participate in activities that reinforce the importance of
saying “no” to drugs and staying committed to a drug-free future.
The 2025 Red Ribbon Week theme is “Life is Puzzle: Solve it
Drug Free.” During the week of Oct. 27-31, schools and scholars are invited to
participate in the following dress days to take part in an active school
community stance against drugs:
- Monday,
October 27: “Be Red-y to live a Drug FREE life”--wear RED
- Tuesday,
October 28: “Let’s TEAM up against drugs”--wear your favorite DeSoto
Spirit shirt
- Wednesday,
October 29: “Throw SHADE on drugs”--wear sunglasses or shades to block out
drugs
- Thursday,
October 30: “Soldiers standing strong against drugs”--wear camouflage gear
- Friday,
October 31: “Say ‘BOO’ to drugs”--wear your favorite book character or
superhero shirt with uniform pants
DeSoto ISD also emphasizes the crucial role that parents and
guardians play in prevention. Research shows that students who have regular,
open conversations with their parents about the risks of drug use are
significantly less likely to experiment with drugs. The district encourages
parents to begin these conversations early and continue them often,
equipping students with the confidence and strategies they need to decline
offers to use or experiment with drugs.
Additionally, DeSoto ISD reminds families about recent
state legislation related to vaping and THC. Offenses involving these
substances can carry serious consequences, including potential felony
charges for students.
The district’s participation in Red Ribbon Week reflects a
shared commitment to student safety and well-being by providing education,
awareness, and clear guidance on the consequences of risky behaviors.
“Health education is essential in promoting safe,
productive, and healthy lifestyles for our scholars,” said Dr. Lastasscia
Williams, DeSoto ISD Director of Health Services. “Through Red Ribbon Week,
we work alongside parents and community partners to keep our students safe and
focused on their goals.”
DeSoto ISD invites students, families, staff, and the entire
community to participate in Red Ribbon Week 2025 as the district
reaffirms its commitment to a safe, drug-free learning environment that
supports every scholar’s path to success.
For more information, please visit www.desotoisd.org.