Red Ribbon is an exciting week for the community and SHOC. The week is filled with many events that promote staying away from harmful substances. This year, Red Ribbon Week will take place Oct. 28-Nov. 1. The theme this year for Red Ribbon Week is Send a message. Stay drug-free. 

Red Ribbon Week is put on by the Kiwanis club, Steele County Safe and Drug-Free Coalition, SHOC and their Adviser Mrs. Nancy Williams. The SHOC officers this year are Charity Jackson, Anna Vetch, Camryn Miller, Marible Maya, Alix Bitin and Maggie Newhouse. 

Red Ribbon Week is put on by the Kiwanis club, Steele County Safe and Drug Free Coalition, SHOC and their Adviser Mrs. Nancy Williams. The SHOC officers this year are Charity Jackson, Anna Vetch, Camryn Miller, Marible Maya, Alix Bitin and Maggie Newhouse. Newhouse says, “Red Ribbon Week is important because it educates students on the negative effects of bad decisions. It’s also a chance to commit to your school and your community”. 

When students return to school on Oct. 28, they will be welcomed back with the commons decorated in red. During lunch time Monday-Thursday students can sign a poster pleading to stay drug-free. After students sign the poster they are given a bracelet that reminds them of the pledge they made. In addition to the bracelets, they also receive many discounts throughout many businesses in Owatonna. 

The week festivities kick off on Monday night at Central Park. The chief of police will be there talking about how important saying drug-free is. During the kickoff, students can enjoy games, face painting, and a meal provided by the Kiwanis club. Awards are also given to the fourth graders who participated in making a poster to have them become aware of the harmful effects of substances. The winners of the poster contest will then get to enjoy a pizza party on Friday sponsored by the Kiwanis club. SHOC hopes to have lots of parents, kids, families and community members come to the kickoff.