Johnston Reporter

Pine Level Elementary recently hosted its 12th annual Red Ribbon Week Parade, an event that promotes drug-free living. Students and staff were joined by members of the PTA, community members, local officials, and representatives from the Johnston County Sheriff’s Department, as well as Pine Level police and fire departments. The North Johnston High Band led the parade.

The parade marked the conclusion of a week filled with themed days such as “Favorite Sports Team Day” and “School Spirit Day.” Students showcased their excitement by marching around the school with posters and small floats they created.

Since its debut in 2013, the Pine Level Elementary Red Ribbon Week Parade has become a significant event for both the school and the community. In 2022, Mayor Jeff Holt declared it an annual event.

“Each year since 2013, the Pine Level Elementary Green Hornets have celebrated Red Ribbon Week allowing students to show our community their pledge to keep drug-free,” said Pine Level Elementary Principal Allen Sasser. “It is an annual event that students, parents, our town, & community support and look forward to each year.”

“This is my first year planning the event and it was amazing seeing the involvement from students, parents, and the community,” stated School Counselor and event co-planner Lauren Jack. “it is very important that we show our children how important it is to live drug-free while they are young so that it will impact their lives as adolescents, and even through adulthood.”

Red Ribbon Week stands as the largest drug prevention campaign in the United States. Initiated nationally in 1988, it continues to encourage communities to educate youth about drugs and promote participation in drug-free activities.