This week, Van Nuys High School is joining the national Red Ribbon Week campaign to raise awareness about the dangers of alcohol and drug use. Organized by the school’s Pupil Services and Wellness team, this week’s focus is on alcohol awareness—helping students understand how even small amounts can affect the body, behavior, and decision-making. The campaign encourages students to think critically about how substances influence their physical and mental health and reminds everyone to stay drug free.

During a presentation by health educators from Tarzana Treatment Centers, students learned about how alcohol acts as a depressant that slows down the central nervous system, affecting everything from motor skills to emotions. They discussed how drinking can lead to poor academic performance, strained relationships, and serious legal consequences like DUIs. The presentation also covered myths about sobering up and explained that only time allows the body to process alcohol. Most importantly, students were taught to recognize the signs of alcohol poisoning and to act responsibly, knowing that California’s Good Samaritan laws protect those who call for help during an emergency.

Red Ribbon Week itself has deep roots. It began in 1985 in memory of DEA Special Agent Enrique “Kiki” Camarena, who was killed while investigating drug trafficking in Mexico. His death inspired a nationwide movement for prevention and awareness, later adopted by schools and communities across the United States. Now marking its 40th year, the campaign remains the country’s largest and longest-running drug prevention initiative. This year’s theme, “Life is a Puzzle, Solve it Drug Free,” highlights how making healthy, drug-free choices helps young people build a stronger and more resilient future, one decision at a time.

The U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) continues to lead national efforts around Red Ribbon Week, offering educational programs, student contests, and the 2025 Virtual National Red Ribbon Rally, available online at www.dea.gov/redribbon. The week, observed from October 23 to 31, also coincides with National Substance Use Prevention Month, providing a timely reminder that prevention begins with knowledge, community, and shared responsibility. At Van Nuys High School and across the nation, this campaign is not just about saying no to drugs—it’s about understanding why a drug-free life is worth choosing.

Find more about the Red Ribbon Week from DEA (USA, October 2025)