11/03/2023

District Judge Carolyn S. Bengel visited Highlands Elementary School and the Early Childhood Center to help kick off the Oct. 23-31 National Red Ribbon Week, sharing the importance of the week and making good choices in life. Judge Bengel also had students recite a drug-free pledge and provided them with a Charms Blow Pop with the message, "Don't Let Drugs Blow Your Mind". Accompanying Judge Bengel were Brackenridge Police Officer Duffy and Highlands Police Officer Naviglia and Officer Ricci.

As a special treat, Judge Bengel brought signed mini Steelers helmets to raffle for six lucky students and two lucky teachers! The helmets included autographs from Kenny Pickett, T.J. Watt, Minkah Fitzpatrick, Joey Porter Jr. & Sr., Broderick Jones, Cam Heyward and Ryan Shazier. Raffle winners at HES were Dae'Var Stevens (1st grade), Jameson Syput (2nd grade), Sophia Cicolini (3rd grade), Michael Reid-Wells (4th grade) and teacher Mrs. Shannon Holzer. Raffle winners at HECC were Kindergartners Arryn Mikolay and Michael Branch and teacher Mrs. Cindy Smith. 

We appreciate our partnership with Judge Bengel, who has been an integral part of our Red Ribbon Week program for nearly 25 years!