Falkville K-5 students kicked off Red Ribbon Week with a “Say No to Drugs” pep rally in the elementary gym Monday afternoon.

Directed by school counselor Janice Laymon. The program featured varsity cheerleaders leading anti-drug yells, the high school band playing music and student leaders telling of their drug-free lifestyles.

SRO Seth Sullivan spoke to the students, encouraging them to continue to say no to drugs. He introduced Falkville Police Chief Chris Free and K-9 officer Vaughn Lambert and his drug-sniffing dog, Felas.

Principal Shane Bryan received a rousing ovation from the students when he took center stage and led them in reciting “Say No to Drugs” chants.

Head football coach Joel Schrenk explained to the students why it is important for them to keep their bodies healthy and drug-free if they want to be successful in football or any other sports. He was backed up by football players Brian Holmes and Jordan Smith.

Other high school students who had speaking roles on the program were Sky Engle, Makenzie Newman, Ryan Bradford, Britni Bell, Emily Hill, Shaynah Story, Luke Randolph, Cheyanne Wilson, Callie Garner and Brian Holmes.

“We use a pep rally to kick off Red Ribbon Week each year,” said Bryan. “A different theme is used each day and the students dress in keeping with the theme. We also award prizes.

“We get great support from parents and the community as a whole,” he said. It’s a good way to educate our students on the dangers of illegal drug use.”

Falkville SRO Seth Sullivan, left, and Police Chief Chris Free talk to Falkville Elementary students about saying no to drugs during a Red Ribbon pep rally Monday. | Clif Knight

Falkville K-9 officer Vaughn Lambert works with his drug detection dog, Felas, during a Red Ribbon Pep Rally at Falkville Elementary School Monday. | Clif Knight

Falkville High School’s band, under the direction of Bradley Phillips, performs for students at a Red Ribbon Pep Rally at Falkville Elementary School Monday afternoon. | Clif Knight