Promoting Respect and Healthy Choices: Week of Respect & Red Ribbon Week ⦿ School Health NJ

Each fall, schools across the nation take time to focus on two important awareness campaigns that encourage students to build positive habits and relationships: Week of Respect and Red Ribbon Week. These observances provide an opportunity for schools, families, and communities to come together in support of creating safe, healthy, and inclusive environments for all students. These awareness weeks are more than just symbolic, they are evidence-based opportunities to build resilience, strengthen school-family partnerships, and create environments where students can thrive. Observed during the first week of October, Week of Respect is dedicated to promoting respect, kindness, and empathy. It supports broader efforts to prevent bullying and foster a positive school climate.

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According to the National Center for Education Statistics, a 2021–22 study showed about 19 percent of students ages 12–18 reported being bullied at school. Bullying is linked to negative outcomes for both the student experiencing bullying and the student responsible for the bullying, including increased risk of depression, anxiety, and decreased academic performance. The good news is that prevention works. In recent research regarding schools that implement comprehensive anti-bullying programs, studies show prevention can see a 20% to 23% reduction in victimization and bullying behaviors over time.

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This year, Week of Respect falls on October 6 – 10 and aligns with National Bullying Prevention Month. It supports goals set forth by organizations like StopBullying.gov, which provides resources on bullying prevention and strategies for intervention. Schools often participate in Week of Respect by organizing themed activities that encourage students to reflect on how they treat others and how they can contribute to a culture of respect. These may include assemblies, class discussions, spirit days, or student-led initiatives. Families are also encouraged to talk at home about respect, inclusion, and the importance of standing up for others.

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Another important event held from October 23–31 is Red Ribbon Week. It is the nation’s largest drug prevention campaign. It honors the legacy of DEA agent Enrique “Kiki” Camarena, who lost his life in the fight against drug trafficking. In his memory, communities began wearing red ribbons as a symbol of their commitment to living drug-free lives. Red Ribbon Week provides schools with a platform to educate students about the dangers of substance use and to promote healthy decision-making. Activities often include school-wide pledges, theme days, guest speakers, and awareness campaigns.

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The role of parents and caregivers is especially critical. According to SAMHSA, children who learn about the dangers of drugs from their parents are up less likely to use substances than those who don’t have these conversations. By participating in Week of Respect and Red Ribbon Week, schools and families work together to instill strong values, healthy choices, and respectful relationships in the next generation. These efforts, through education and connection, build safer school environments and healthier communities. These campaigns create powerful opportunities to connect students with positive messaging and support systems that can last a lifetime. To support planning and engagement for both weeks, the Center for Prevention & Counseling created a helpful and comprehensive toolkit with ready-to-use materials and suggestions for school and home-based activities: Sussex County's Week of Respect Toolkit and Sussex County's Red Ribbon Week Toolkit.