Laredo schools educated about the dangers of drug use

LAREDO, Texas (KGNS) – The largest drug prevention campaign in the U.S. is underway. Schools in Laredo are involved in raising student awareness.

From cheering to learning and games galore, fifth graders from Alma Pierce Elementary School gathered to celebrate Red Ribbon Week.

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

The Webb County Constable’s Office goes from school to school giving presentations on staying off drugs.

Students not only learned about the consequences of drug use, but also took quizzes about them.

Zoe Garcia, a student at Alma Pierce Elementary School, mentioned, “Don’t trust strangers or go out 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 something that could harm you, and you don’t know what a first aid kit is because it could expire and make you seriously sick.

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

Another student, Jose Mendoza, noted, “What to do if someone has peer pressure on you and that there are also good medicines like your medicine and stuff like that.”

Red Ribbon Week is a symbol of engaging and educating children about drugs.

The constable’s office says starting children at a young age may prevent them from using them as they get older.

“I asked the teacher to bring the fifth graders because next year is very important for them. They need to know and learn about peer pressure and choosing friends when they get to middle school,” said Webb County Police Officer Pct. 1st Lt. Jonathan Gonzalez.

Alma Pierce wasn’t the only school participating in the event. Other students from across Laredo pledged not to use drugs.

Older students had the opportunity to hear about the various means available to them to prevent and combat addiction.

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

To keep his memory alive, people began wearing red ribbons to encourage children to participate in preventive activities.

Red Ribbon Week takes place every year from October 23–31.

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