Although Red Ribbon Week has wrapped up for the season, the message continues to resonate throughout Woodlands Middle High School. The wall outside of the cafeteria in the Commons area was recently covered with red ribbons and signed pledges from students, serving as a lasting reminder of the school community’s commitment to making safe, healthy, and drug-free choices.
This year’s national theme, “Life Is a Puzzle—Solve It Drug Free,” served as a guiding message to inspire conversations about making positive decisions and supporting one another.
At Woodlands, students took the lead in organizing the school’s Red Ribbon Week Pledge Day, educating their peers on the dangers of drug and alcohol abuse, and distributing educational materials. The event was supervised by Mr. Gaines and coordinated by Ms. Martinez, school social worker at Woodlands Middle High School, and Ms. Cunney, a Fordham graduate social work intern.
Students created meaningful conversations with their classmates, encouraging open dialogue and questions about making positive choices. “I wanted to be part of Red Ribbon Week because I think it’s important for students to lead the conversation,” said WHS student Sarah Melo-Noboa. “When we talk to each other, it feels more real and personal. I wanted to help make sure people felt supported and reminded that making good choices really matters.”
The student-led discussions inspired curiosity and reflection, as students asked thoughtful questions about what’s truly good for them and how their choices can impact their health and relationships. “Red Ribbon Week is important because it positively spreads awareness,” Sarah added. “It helps bring everyone together and reminds us that staying drug-free isn’t just about saying no—it’s about caring for yourself and the people around you.”
Reflecting on the importance of prevention and education, Ms. Martinez emphasized how meaningful it is for students to connect learning to real-life decision-making. “It’s essential for students to have an understanding of what is good for them and what is not good for them,” she said. “And education is always the best prevention.”
“Awareness helps students by showing them that they’re not alone and that there’s always someone who understands,” Sarah said. “Sometimes even small reminders can make a big difference for someone who needs it.”