Grim Reaper Day

Grim Reaper Day at OBHS Aimed at Saving Lives

By Matt Brown

Grim Reaper Day is an annual event that draws attention to the devastating effects of driving while compromised. An adolescent senselessly dies every 32 minutes as a result a direct result of drugs or alcohol. SADD Officers and Volunteers train to be part of the event. They “symbolically” die every 32 minutes when the gong rings over the loud speaker. The grim character of the “Reaper”, (students dressed in costume), enters a room and taps a predetermined student on the shoulder. They stand and wear a placard explaining the tragic circumstances of their untimely death for all of their fellow students to read throughout the day. They remain silent and non-interactive throughout the course of their regular day as if they were “dead” to us. Their presence is a somber reminder to make good decisions to keep them, their friends and family safe, and especially to never drink and drive.

Grim Reaper Day has become a tradition here at Oyster Bay High School. This was once only for High School students. The presence of 7^th and 8^th graders at the High School gave rise to the need to incorporate middle level students and age appropriate situations into the somber event. The goal is to empower middle level students to decline rides from compromised adults, refrain from experimentation with alcohol and drugs, and to avoid risky behaviors and activities, even when they are sober. After the last bell, all volunteers congregate in the Gym lobby so individuals can read all of the placards and SADD Officers can continue to share facts. Faculty members also get involved. For instance OBHS Principal, Dr. O’Hara, was one of the volunteers. In general the students feel that this is an effective and necessary event to raise awareness and educate. The event is scheduled as part of Red Ribbon Week which also shares that mission. This year, through the generosity of our own PTSA and the resources of the “Safe and Drug Free Schools Grant” we were able to provide the “Save A Life Tour” as follow-up as well.