Clifton ISD is recognizing several important awareness observances this month that are designated by the Texas Legislature and the Texas Education Code. These observances provide opportunities for schools to engage students, staff and families in education, prevention and community support.
Fentanyl Poisoning Awareness Month & Week
Governor Greg Abbott has proclaimed October 2025 as Fentanyl Poisoning Awareness Month in Texas, following House Bill 3144, which added this recognition to the Texas Government Code (§662.116). In addition, the Texas Education Code (§29.9074) designates October 12–18, 2025 as Fentanyl Poisoning Awareness Week.
Through Tucker’s Law (HB 3908, TEC §38.040), all school districts are required to provide annual, research-based instruction for grades 6–12 on fentanyl abuse prevention, overdose response, and related mental health topics. Clifton ISD campuses will host lessons and share resources with students and families to reinforce this lifesaving knowledge.
Opioid Antagonist Readiness
In line with Senate Bill 629 (TEC §38.222), Clifton ISD maintains a districtwide policy for the secure storage and administration of opioid antagonists, such as naloxone, on secondary campuses. Trained staff members are prepared to respond to opioid-related emergencies, ensuring student safety remains a top priority.
Bullying Prevention
October is also observed nationally as Bullying Prevention Month. Texas Education Code §37.001 requires districts to maintain discipline and safety policies that address bullying. Clifton ISD will host kindness campaigns, student pledges, and classroom activities to encourage respect and empathy among peers. More information about David's Law and the definition of bullying and cyberbullying visit here.
Other Observances for October
In addition to these state mandates, Clifton ISD is also recognizing several national awareness themes observed in October that support student well-being and inclusion:
October 2nd: School Custodian Appreciation Day
October 5th: World Teacher's Day
October 13th - 17th: National School Lunch Week & Digital Citizenship Week
October 16th: Boss' Day
October 20th - 24th: National School Bus Safety Week
October 23rd - 31st: Red Ribbon Week
Across the country, October is a time to recognize and celebrate the vital role principals play in schools—and here in Clifton ISD, we are proud to honor our exceptional campus leaders. National Principals Month is a nationwide celebration of the hard work, vision, and dedication of school principals, and we are especially grateful for the impact our principals make every single day.
Our Clifton ISD principals lead with heart, inspire excellence, and create learning environments where students and staff feel supported, empowered, and valued. Their leadership shapes the future of our students and strengthens our entire community.
Thank you to our Clifton ISD principals for your incredible service. We celebrate you this month and always!
The month serves as a period to raise public awareness about dyslexia, promote early identification, and highlight the importance of early intervention and effective support. For the latest dyslexia guidance, resources, and support, check out:
Texas public schools, like other organizations nationally, recognize October as Cybersecurity Awareness Month to promote cyber safety and resilience through education and various initiatives for students and staff. Clifton ISD is committed to protecting sensitive student and district information and empowering their communities to stay safe online. By fostering awareness, schools can reduce risks from cyberattacks, which are a growing threat to digital operations.
Commitment to Safe and Supportive Schools
October brings many opportunities to engage our students in conversations that matter, from fentanyl prevention to bullying awareness and inclusion. By following the Texas Education Code requirements and embracing national observances, we are ensuring that our schools remain not only centers of learning but also safe, supportive environments for every student.
Families can find resources, lesson highlights, and support services on the Clifton ISD website, visit the Texas School Safety Center's Parent Toolkit and through campus communication channels throughout October.