Last week was Red Ribbon Week at CPE (and I think nationwide). In Room 15, kids had the chance to sign my “Drug Free” banner. By doing so they’re pledging to try their best to stay away from illegal substances. The next time you’re in the building, stop by the room and check out the Red Ribbon, which hangs near the backdoor of my classroom. It is one of my most precious possessions because it bears the signatures of nearly every student I’ve ever taught–all the way back to 1994! Even better, now it includes the signatures of nearly all my current students! I’m proud of them for pledging to stay drug-free. After the new year, we’ll be starting our DARE (drug resistance) classes in which the kids will learn how to deal with peer pressure, how to make good choices, and how to avoid illegal substances.

In other news, The Sams Valley Mini Marathon is this Friday. Nearly every 4th and 5th graders in District 6–all 800 of ’em–will be busting through the starting gate and running the 5,000 meter course along local roads. There’s also a mascot dance-off, a medals ceremony, and lots of bling from Dr. West Orthodontics, our sponsor. The starting gun fires at 9:30 a.m., but arrive early to find parking. Late comers will need to park on the corner of Table Rock and Highway 238.