Red Ribbon week begins next week, October 21, and will run through the entire week, until Friday, October 25.

Red Ribbon Week is an event that is meant to create awareness of drug and alcohol usage, as well as a sense of unity against such actions through various activities.

“Everyone is empowered to make safe decisions. We can make those safe decisions together,” math teacher Jessica Madigan said.

As a kick off to Red Ribbon Week, everything will be decorated in red ribbons and posters will be put up when Niles West alumni walk in on Monday morning. Games and prizes will be given out during lunch periods in the cafeteria next week. In order to get prizes, students will have to answer questions regarding drug awareness. Along with that,  a huge red ribbon will be available for all students to sign, pledging to live drug free lives.

Unlike last year, this year’s Red Ribbon week will also incorporate a spirit week.

Monday: “Living Drug/Alcohol Free is No Sweat” (sweatpants and sweatshirts)

Tuesday: “Put Your Foot Down on Drugs/Alcohol” (mismatched shoes and socks)

Wednesday: “Color My World Drug Free” (colorful outfits)

Thursday: “Say BOO to Drugs” (Halloween colors)

Friday: All wear red to support!

Ninevehta Khoshaba contributed to this article.