Sixth-graders start 18th ‘Walk to be Drug Free’
By Nancy Horst, Special to The Gazette
Friday, September 19, 2008
Sixth-grade students in Emporia will begin collecting pledges this weekend to support their commitment to a healthy drug-free lifestyle.
Students are getting ready for the annual 6th Grade Walk to be Drug Free on October 3. Students will begin their walk at 9:30 a.m. at Welch Stadium at Emporia State University.
The Walk-to-Be Drug Free is held each year at the sixth grade level in conjunction with Red Ribbon Week. Students sign a pledge to be drug free and collect donations for drug abuse prevention and education in the community.
This is the 18th year for the walk. More than 320 students participated last year and raised more than $14,600.
“This activity is an important community service project for our students,” said Wade Redeker, Lowther North principal. “A percentage of what they raise is donated to Emporians for Drug Awareness. It also is a primary fund raiser for Lowther North.”
Lowther North kicked off the event today with a student assembly presented by Chief Robert TallTree and his wife Terri Lynn. Their program uses music and storytelling to deliver a drug-free message that emphasizes self-respect, resiliency and respect for all life.