ODESSA, Texas – The Ector County Independent School District (ECISD) marked the start of National Red Ribbon Week with a ribbon‑cutting ceremony and pep rally at Bonham Middle School Tuesday morning. The event, part of a week‑long effort to promote drug‑free lifestyles, brought together school leaders, local officials, law‑enforcement, and parents.
Community leaders stress the importance of drug prevention
Taylor Lang, executive director of guidance and counseling for ECISD, explained that the celebration serves as a reminder that students need a healthy future. “Drug and alcohol abuse impacts communities across our country and we want to make sure that our students know the dangers of using drugs and alcohol, how to say no and how to ask for help,” Lang said.
Superintendent Dr. Keeley Boyer addressed the assembled crowd, praising the district’s long‑standing commitment to drug‑free education. Mayor Cal Hendrick and ECISD Police Chief Jeff Daniels also spoke, underscoring the role of law‑enforcement partnerships in keeping schools safe.
Tradition and parental involvement
Bonham’s guidance counselor Pete Maurio noted that the rally is now a five‑year tradition for the middle school. Standing before the drug‑free pledges signed by every student the previous Friday, Maurio urged students to work together to stay drug free.
Ambassador Aaron Chavez, a parent and member of the Odessa Chamber of Commerce, highlighted the event’s broader community impact. “As a parent this is an extremely important reminder, we need that reinforcement. It takes a village to raise a child. I believe that everyone together can make a difference in moving this idea, this awareness forward,” Chavez said.
Activities throughout the week
Throughout Red Ribbon Week, ECISD schools will host themed dress‑up days, classroom lessons, and additional prevention education. The district encourages families or students who need assistance to reach out to school guidance counselors for resources and support.
By centering the rally on community participation and parental involvement, ECISD aims to reinforce the message that a drug‑free future is a shared responsibility of students, families, educators, and local leaders.
Original reporting: CBS7 / First Alert 7 KOSA (Gray) — read the source article.
