Orange Beach City Schools students joined Superintendent Randy Wilkes and other Baldwin County students and leaders to launch the Superintendents' Red Ribbon Awards Program at the First Baptist Church in Robertsdale Sept. 23.

The initiative, sponsored by the Drug Education Council, promotes drug awareness, leadership and prevention strategies for students throughout Baldwin County. The agency is licensed to serve the State of Alabama and currently provides services in Baldwin, Clarke, Conecuh, Escambia, Mobile, Monroe and Washington counties. The agency has offices in Mobile and Baldwin counties.

Wilkes recognized the leadership potential in the three students representing Orange Beach, Paige Lipke, Allie Roach and Peighton Proctor, highlighting their role in combating drug use in their communities.

"Each of you will play a pivotal role in encouraging your peers to make smart, healthy decisions," Wilkes said.

He also addressed Alabama's new drug education law aimed at tackling the opioid crisis and fentanyl dangers.

Beginning this school year, middle and high school students will receive mandatory education on fentanyl prevention. Lipke, Roach and Proctor will be at the forefront of these efforts helping to spread knowledge and prevent addiction.

Wilkes shared his vision for the program, encouraging the students to embody the Mako Way — trust, honesty, integrity, caring and respect — as they take on leadership roles and promote awareness.

"These core values should drive your outreach efforts and become a cornerstone of your leadership," he said.

The Superintendents' Red Ribbon Awards Program also emphasizes collaboration with local leaders, law enforcement and prevention specialists. Students are encouraged to incorporate this year's theme, "We Love Our Veterans and First Responders," in their campaigns and extend their outreach to engage the broader community.

Red Ribbon Week will be celebrated in OBCS Oct. 23-31.