GRISWOLD — A slogan created at Griswold Middle School is the national message for this year’s Red Ribbon Week, giving the community’s upcoming drug-prevention observance a connection to schools and families beyond Connecticut.
The National Family Partnership confirms the 2026 theme, “Make a Difference. Be a Hero. Stay Drug Free.” Its official theme page credits a Griswold Middle School student, working with a health teacher, with the winning entry. The organization’s original announcement is dated February 9; this is not a newly decided October contest.
The current local recognition came in an October 13 message from campaign president and chief executive Peggy B. Sapp. She highlighted Griswold as the theme’s birthplace and credited educators, families and community prevention partners, including the Griswold PRIDE coalition.
Griswold Middle School’s annual Red Ribbon Rally is planned for October 23 from 8:30 to 9:30 a.m. in its gymnasium at 211 Slater Avenue, according to Beth McDermott’s October 9 Norwich Bulletin report, available through AOL. The district’s own website independently confirms the school’s address; the rally schedule remains attributed to that report.
The Bulletin describes planned student emcees, skits, guest speakers and prevention activities, with additional weeklong details still being finalized. Those are announced plans, not activities already completed. No final speaker roster or later cancellation notice was independently obtained in this check.
The national observance runs October 23–31. The organizer describes the theme as encouraging everyday leadership and positive influence among peers; that is the campaign’s intended message, not evidence of a measured local change in drug use.
Families and community guests considering the rally should confirm current arrangements with the middle school, whose published main-office number is 860-376-7630. This report does not reproduce the student’s photo or identifying details.