The campaign runs in Texas public schools from Oct. 23 through Oct. 31. Although the campaign's been around since 1986, Maxwell said it has lost some effectiveness. But she's hoping that a renewed campaign will rejuvenate a stronger and more consistent anti-drug mission. We need to do it every year because you're talking about new kids every year. During Red Ribbon week, students are encouraged to share drug-free messages with friends, family and religious congregations.
Students also hear speakers talk about the effects of drugs on families, brains and nervous systems.
Also, students are can sign pledge cards in which they agree to not use alcohol, tobacco and drugs. Pledge cards are then delivered to principals, mayors or legislators. The campaigns were so successful that drug use dropped, he said. When that happened, the stress on drug education dropped too. One reason for decreased drug education is lack of federal funding, he said.