Pine Level Elementary celebrated Red Ribbon Week with its 14th annual parade, bringing students, staff, families, and community partners together to promote a drug-free life. The parade served as the grand finale of a week filled with fun daily themes, encouraging students and staff to participate while learning about the importance of making healthy choices.
Students and staff gathered in the gymnasium to prepare for the procession before making their way outside. Then they walked around the school past waving crowds of supporters as they proudly displayed posters and small floats they made.
The event welcomed members of the Parent-Teacher Association, local officials, Johnston County Public Schools (JCPS) leadership, Johnston County Board of Education members, representatives from the Johnston County Sheriff's Office, and the Pine Level Police and Fire Departments.
Launched in 1988, the National Red Ribbon Campaign mobilizes communities to educate young people and encourage participation in drug prevention activities. Red Ribbon Week is the nation's largest and longest-running drug prevention campaign, providing schools and communities with an opportunity to promote healthy, drug-free lifestyles.
Over the years, Pine Level Elementary's parade has become a cherished tradition for the school and the surrounding community. Families and community members line the streets each year to cheer on students and support the message of living drug-free. The annual event reflects the strong partnership between the school and its community in encouraging students to make positive choices and build healthy futures.