Clifton ISD is recognizing several important awareness, recognition and observance events throughout October. Some are established by the Texas Legislature or Texas Education Code, while others are national education observances that provide opportunities to celebrate our students and staff and promote safe, supportive learning environments.
October Recognitions
In addition to state-designated observances, Clifton ISD recognizes several national education-related celebrations throughout October:
October – National Principals Month
October – Dyslexia Awareness Month
October – Cybersecurity Awareness Month
October 2 – School Custodian Appreciation Day
October 5 – World Teachers' Day
October 12–16 – National School Lunch Week
October 19–23 – National School Bus Safety Week AND Digital Citizenship Week
October 26–30 – Red Ribbon Week
National Principals Month
Throughout October, Clifton ISD joins schools across the country in celebrating National Principals Month and recognizing the leadership of our campus principals.
Our principals support students, teachers and families each day while helping create campuses where students can learn, grow and succeed. We are grateful for their leadership, dedication and continued service to our Cubs!
Dyslexia Awareness Month
October is also Dyslexia Awareness Month, an opportunity to increase understanding of dyslexia, highlight the importance of early identification and recognize the strengths and potential of students with dyslexia.
Clifton ISD remains committed to providing appropriate identification, instruction and support for students with dyslexia in accordance with state requirements and guidance. Families and educators can learn more about dyslexia, the Texas Dyslexia Handbook and available resources through the Texas Education Agency Dyslexia Resources page.
Cybersecurity Awareness Month & Digital Citizenship Week | October 19-23
Cybersecurity Awareness Month provides an opportunity to reinforce safe and responsible technology use throughout our schools.
With technology playing an important role in teaching, learning and district operations, Clifton ISD works throughout the year to protect student and district information while helping students and staff develop responsible digital habits.
Fentanyl Poisoning Awareness Month & Week
October is recognized in Texas as Fentanyl Poisoning Awareness Month, and Governor Greg Abbott has designated October 11–17, 2026, as Fentanyl Poisoning Awareness Week in Texas public schools.
Texas law also requires school districts to provide annual, research-based instruction to students in grades 6–12 on fentanyl abuse prevention and drug poisoning awareness. Required instruction includes prevention of fentanyl abuse and addiction, suicide prevention and awareness of school and community resources available to students.
Clifton ISD will continue providing students with age-appropriate information and resources designed to help them understand the dangers of fentanyl and make safe, informed decisions.
Opioid Antagonist Readiness
Clifton ISD maintains procedures for the secure storage and administration of opioid antagonists, such as naloxone, as required by Texas law. Trained staff members are prepared to respond to opioid-related emergencies as part of the district's commitment to student health and safety.
Bullying Prevention
October is nationally recognized as Bullying Prevention Month, providing an opportunity to reinforce the importance of kindness, respect and safe learning environments.
Texas public schools are required to maintain policies and procedures addressing bullying and cyberbullying. Throughout the school year, Clifton ISD works to promote positive student relationships, provide avenues for reporting concerns and maintain safe and supportive campuses for all students.
Free College Application Week | October 12–18
Texas Free College Application Week will be observed October 12–18, 2026. Established by the Texas Legislature, the initiative provides Texas residents an opportunity to apply for undergraduate admission to Texas public colleges and universities without paying an application fee.
To qualify, applications must be submitted through ApplyTexas between October 12 and October 18. The opportunity is available to Texas residents applying to undergraduate programs at Texas public universities, community colleges, technical colleges and other eligible public institutions.
Clifton ISD encourages students and families to take advantage of this opportunity as they plan for life after high school. Students may work with Clifton High School staff and college and career resources for assistance with postsecondary planning and the college application process.
Families can find eligibility information, frequently asked questions and additional resources through the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board Free College Application Week page
Red Ribbon Week | October 26–30 at CISD
Clifton ISD joins schools and communities across the nation in recognizing Red Ribbon Week, October 23–31. Red Ribbon Week is the nation’s oldest and largest drug-use prevention awareness campaign and encourages students, families and communities to promote healthy, drug-free choices.
The 2026 Red Ribbon Week theme, “Make a Difference. Be a Hero. Stay Drug Free.™,” encourages students to recognize that making healthy choices and positively influencing others are ways they can make a difference in their schools and communities. Be sure to follow campus newsletters to see how Clifton ISD will provide opportunities to reinforce age-appropriate drug prevention messages and encourage students to make safe, healthy choices.
Families can learn more and access prevention resources through the Red Ribbon Week resources.
Other State-Designated October Observances
Texas law also recognizes several October observances that may provide opportunities for classroom connections and student learning.
Monarch Butterfly Week | October 1–7: The first seven days of October are designated as Monarch Butterfly Week in Texas to encourage the study, observation and promotion of the monarch butterfly, the Texas state insect.
Texas Native Plant Week | October 18–24: The third full week of October is designated as Texas Native Plant Week. Texas law specifically provides that the week may be observed in public schools through programs that encourage students to appreciate, explore and study plants native to Texas.
Commitment to Safe and Supportive Schools
October provides many opportunities to educate, recognize and celebrate across Clifton ISD. From student safety and prevention efforts to recognizing the educators and staff members who serve our Cubs each day, these observances support our continued commitment to providing meaningful learning opportunities and safe, supportive environments for every student.
At Clifton ISD, Students Are Our Mission, and we remain committed to working together to support the success and well-being of every Cub.
Let’s Be Great Together!