By: CA Staff Writer | Oct 25, 2025
Clarksdale, Mississippi – Schools across Coahoma County recently celebrated Red Ribbon Week, with special events led by the Coahoma County Sheriff’s Office to promote drug-free lifestyles among students. The Sheriff’s Office visited multiple schools, including Lyon Elementary, Jonestown Elementary, and Friars Point Elementary, to share the importance of making healthy choices and avoiding substance abuse.
Red Ribbon Week, observed nationwide each October, is a powerful initiative that highlights the dangers of drugs while encouraging young people to lead safe, healthy lives. This annual event provides parents, educators, and communities an opportunity to reinforce drug-free messages shared throughout the year. This year, Coahoma County’s theme focused on educating students about the risks of drug abuse, including prescription drug misuse.
At Lyon Elementary, the Sheriff’s Office engaged students in discussions about the dangers of drug use, empowering them to make safe decisions. In Jonestown Elementary, School Resource Officer (SRO) Chillis led students in understanding the background of Red Ribbon Week, sharing how the campaign was inspired by DEA agent Enrique “Kiki” Camarena, who lost his life fighting drug trafficking. Chillis emphasized that the red ribbon is a symbol of commitment to a drug-free life, giving students an inspiring reminder of the week’s purpose.
The Sheriff’s Office also visited Friars Point Elementary, where they further reinforced the significance of Red Ribbon Week. Officers shared stories, answered questions, and encouraged students to discuss the challenges they may encounter as they grow older. By engaging with law enforcement, students learned about the dangers of drugs and the importance of making positive choices for themselves and their communities.
“Events like Red Ribbon Week help us show young people that they have the power to make healthy decisions,” said a Coahoma County Sheriff’s Office representative. “Our goal is to ensure students feel supported and informed in their commitment to a drug-free life.”
Red Ribbon Week in Coahoma County was a community-wide effort, with parents, educators, and law enforcement coming together to support students in a positive, impactful way. Through ongoing conversations and activities, Red Ribbon Week encourages Coahoma County’s youth to make safe choices, highlighting the strength of community support and the shared mission to build a brighter, drug-free future.
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Photo Credit: Coahoma County Sheriff’s Department
