The 2015 National Red Ribbon theme is “Respect Yourself. Be Drug Free.”

“Respecting yourself means looking at yourself every day and treating yourself like you would treat someone you loved most in the world,” said Kristofer, 13. “If you do drugs, you really don’t have self-confidence and you don’t respect yourself."

For Kristofer’s mother, Lori Calhoun, the topic hits close to home. “My father was addicted to prescription drugs and I’ve experienced the impact of addiction first-hand,” said Lori. “He overdosed when I was a junior in high school and I was the one to find him and get him help.”

Lori Calhoun’s personal experience with the issue makes Kristofer’s win that much more meaningful. “I’m so proud that Kristofer is taking a stand against underage drinking and drug use,” said Lori. “I’m so excited for him!”

The annual National Red Ribbon Theme Contest, sponsored by the National Family Partnership, offers students and other prevention supporters the opportunity to be a part of history. The winning slogan will be used throughout 2015 in thousands of schools and communities across America. In its 30th year as the nation’s largest and oldest drug prevention campaign, Red Ribbon Week® reaches over 100 million people each year throughout the United States. In addition to national recognition, Kristofer’s school, Solon Middle School, will also receive $500 worth of 2015 Red Ribbon Week® theme merchandise.

Left to Right: Cheryl Holsapfel, Lori Calhoun, Kristofer Calhoun, Principal Genie Green and Laurel Greene, S.A.Y. Counselor

This is the second year that Solon Middle School won the National Red Ribbon Theme contest, thanks to proud Red Ribbon supporter and digital arts teacher Cheryl Holsapfel, who encourages her students to enter the contest every year. Aly Falck, a former Solon Middle 7th grader, won the contest in 2013.

“I’m so proud of Kristofer,” said Holsapfel. “It couldn’t have happened to a nicer student.”

For those students considering using alcohol or drugs, Kristofer Calhoun offered some advice. “Think about how it affects you,” said Calhoun. “Think about how it will affect the people around you who love and care about you.”

Thank you, Kristofer, for your wonderful slogan and your inspiring message to children and families across America.