Scout Troop Brings Drug Prevention Lesson to School

The desire to earn a Red-Ribbon week patch from the Drug Enforcement Administration had Boy Scout Troop 1776 bringing their experiences back to their elementary school.

The 12 Webelos presented a Red-Ribbon week quilt to Woodfern School Principal Jay Majka, which now hangs in the school library. Each scout created a square on the quilt with an anti-drug message, and also read the DEA’s drug pledge to all students during the school’s morning announcements.

“It is wonderful to see Woodfern students taking the initiative to educate their peers and their community on the topic of Red Ribbon Week’s drug-free message,” Minda Maggio, Coordinator of the Hillsborough Township Public Schools Life Skills Program, said via release. “Peer-to-peer leadership is one of the most influential ways children learn decision-making and problem solving skills.”

Prior to creating the quilt—and to fulfill the badge requirements—the students met with Susan Busfield, a substance abuse counselor from Carrier Clinic, to discuss choices and decision-making skills. They also visited the Branchburg Police Station and met with Branchburg Township DARE Officer Thomas Meola.

The students who are participating in earning the patch are Carmen Bisignano, Christopher Cannatelli, Nick Fanizzi, Brian Hammer, Joey Harmon, Kaya Kennette, Matthew LoBiondo, Matthew Matrulli, Raymond McAleer, Lucas Romano, Logan Teeple, and Dylan Warner.