"I can help America be strong and drug-free" was the thought on every student's mind during the Hannah McClure Red Ribbon Rally Thursday. The school was honored to have distinguished elected officials including our state senator, state representative and mayor, along with the school superintendent as speakers at the culminating activity of Red Ribbon Week.
Oct. 23-31 was celebrated nationwide as Red Ribbon Week to help students say "No!" when offered illegal drugs. This year Hannah McClure decided to use the patriotic theme to tie in the upcoming presidential election. The "I can" theme motivated the students to become active in the electoral process. Students held a mock school election after the rally to vote for the presidential candidate they thought would be best to help America be strong and drug-free.
To begin the rally, Principal Kathryn Howard welcomed the Junior ROTC led by Col. Brent Morris emphasizing American spirit with a presentation of colors as the entire assembly stood for the pledge of allegiance. McClure science teacher Candy Craig then rendered an acapella version of the National Anthem. (Mrs. Craig sang with classmate Neil Boyd, 2008 winner of America's Got Talent, in the Southeast Missouri State Choir.)
