By Kahla Stanley

“Arrive Alive, Don’t Text and Drive” is a student-based campaign started by the North Star Student Council’s Student Issues Committee. The campaign started when Mr. Mike Musiel showed a graphic public service announcement to Student Council members.

Three drama students from the United Kingdom created a public service announcement (psa) video that included a reenactment of what could happen if you text and drive. The PSA was graphic enough to open the eyes of the Student Council members. Student Council felt this was a serious issue that needed to be brought to the attention of the students at North Star, whether you drive or not.

Media Ajir (12) and Kelsey Grunder (11) are the project chairs for the campaign. Ajir said the committee created the project and submitted it for approval. The students then visited with State Farm Insurance and Performance Dodge. Both companies agreed to sponsor the campaign. The companies have given advice and helped with some of the costs of the campaign.

Students pledge against texting and driving during the Student Council campaign "Arrive Alive: Dnt Txt n Drv."

Wristbands, phone bands, t-shirts, flyers, and pledge cards have been handed out to students not only at North Star, but all over Lincoln. Even schools in other parts of Nebraska have come on board. The materials were also handed out at sports events and other school activities.

The Nebraska Association of Student Councils is a yearly convention where student councils from all over Nebraska come together and discuss leadership skills along with new initiatives schools can promote. North Star shared the Arrive Alive campaign at the convention held in Ogallala, NE on October 19. The word got around and Arrive Alive was a huge success at the convention. “I think we should continue to promote Arrive Alive” said Ajir.

Texting and driving account for 80% of all crashes, according to the National Traffic Safety Administration. “Even when I’m with my friends I say, “Put that away.” People need to remember it’s all fun and games until someone gets hurt,” said Ajir.

Texting and driving is banned in 18 states, including Nebraska.