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Dayton Public Schools hosting back-to-school event for families

Dayton Public Schools Gears Up for New School Year with Vibrant Back-to-School Bash

Dayton, Ohio – As the summer days wind down and the anticipation for a new academic year builds, Dayton Public Schools (DPS) is pulling out all the stops to welcome students, families, and staff back with enthusiasm. The district has announced its annual Back-to-School Bash, a community-wide event designed to kick off the school year on a high note. Scheduled for Saturday, August 10, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., the bash will take place at the expansive grounds of Welcome Stadium, located at 1601 Edwin C. Moses Blvd. This free, family-friendly gathering promises a mix of fun, resources, and essential preparations to ensure every student starts the year equipped and excited.

The Back-to-School Bash is more than just a festive occasion; it's a cornerstone of DPS's commitment to fostering strong community ties and supporting student success. In a district serving over 12,000 students across more than 25 schools, events like this play a crucial role in bridging the gap between home and classroom. Organizers emphasize that the bash is open to all DPS families, regardless of grade level, and encourages participation from incoming kindergartners to high school seniors. "We're not just opening our doors; we're throwing them wide open," said Dr. David Lawrence, Interim Superintendent of Dayton Public Schools, in a recent statement. "This event is about building excitement, providing resources, and reminding our community that education is a shared journey."

Attendees can look forward to a packed schedule of activities tailored to engage all ages. The day will kick off with live performances from local bands and dance groups, showcasing the talents of Dayton's youth. Interactive booths will offer games, face painting, and inflatable bounce houses for younger children, while older students can participate in team-building challenges and sports demonstrations. Food trucks will line the stadium perimeter, serving up free snacks and meals to keep energy levels high. But the bash isn't all play – it's packed with practical support to ease the transition back to school.

One of the highlights is the on-site distribution of school supplies. DPS has partnered with local businesses and nonprofits to provide backpacks filled with notebooks, pencils, folders, and other essentials. Families facing financial hardships can also access information on free and reduced lunch programs, uniform vouchers, and transportation assistance. Health and wellness take center stage too, with free immunization clinics and vision screenings available. Representatives from the district's health services will be on hand to discuss vaccination requirements and mental health resources, addressing the growing need for holistic student support in the wake of recent challenges like the ongoing effects of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Education experts within the district highlight the importance of such events in combating summer learning loss and reigniting a passion for learning. "After a long break, it's easy for students to feel disconnected," explained Sarah Thompson, a curriculum specialist at DPS. "The Back-to-School Bash helps rekindle that spark by making school feel like a community celebration rather than an obligation." Thompson points to studies showing that students who attend preparatory events like this often exhibit higher attendance rates and better academic performance in the first quarter. For parents, it's an opportunity to meet teachers, principals, and support staff in a relaxed setting, fostering relationships that can make a difference throughout the year.

This year's bash also features a special focus on technology and digital literacy, reflecting DPS's push toward modern education. Booths dedicated to the district's one-to-one device program will allow families to register for laptops or tablets, with tutorials on using educational apps and online platforms. In an era where remote learning tools remain vital, these resources ensure no student is left behind. Additionally, career and college readiness workshops will be available for high schoolers, including sessions on resume building, scholarship applications, and trade school options. Local colleges like Sinclair Community College and the University of Dayton will have representatives present to discuss dual-enrollment opportunities and campus tours.

Community partnerships are at the heart of the event's success. DPS has collaborated with organizations such as the Dayton Metro Library, which will host storytelling sessions and book giveaways, and the Greater Dayton Area Food Bank, providing information on weekend meal programs. Local businesses, including Kroger and Fifth Third Bank, are sponsoring giveaways and financial literacy workshops for parents. These alliances underscore the district's belief that education extends beyond the classroom walls. "It takes a village to raise a child, and in Dayton, our village is strong," noted Lawrence. Past events have drawn thousands of attendees, and organizers expect similar turnout this year, especially with the addition of new attractions like a STEM fair featuring hands-on experiments in science, technology, engineering, and math.

For families new to the district or those navigating enrollment for the first time, the bash serves as a one-stop shop. On-site registration stations will assist with paperwork, school assignments, and bus route planning. Special education coordinators will be available to discuss individualized education plans (IEPs) and accommodations, ensuring inclusivity for all students. Multilingual support will be provided, with interpreters on hand for non-English speaking families, reflecting Dayton's diverse population.

The event also shines a spotlight on extracurricular activities, which are vital for student development. Clubs and sports teams from various DPS schools will set up recruitment tables, from robotics clubs to marching bands and athletic programs. "Extracurriculars build character, teamwork, and lifelong skills," said Coach Mike Rivera of Thurgood Marshall High School. "We're excited to show families what's possible and get kids signed up early." Success stories from alumni who credit their involvement in such activities for their achievements will be shared through inspirational talks.

As the school year approaches – with classes set to begin on August 14 – the Back-to-School Bash represents a pivotal moment for renewal and preparation. It's a reminder of the resilience of Dayton's educational community, which has weathered budget constraints, teacher shortages, and societal shifts. By hosting this event, DPS aims to set a positive tone, emphasizing themes of unity, equity, and excellence. Parents like Maria Gonzalez, a mother of three DPS students, appreciate the initiative. "Last year, the bash helped us get everything we needed without stress," she shared. "It's more than an event; it's a lifeline for busy families."

In addition to the fun and resources, the bash includes safety and security information sessions. With school safety a top priority nationwide, DPS will outline its protocols, including active shooter drills, bullying prevention programs, and mental health crisis response teams. This proactive approach reassures parents and empowers students to feel secure in their learning environments.

Transportation to the event is made easy, with free shuttle services from select DPS schools and public parking available at Welcome Stadium. For those unable to attend, DPS encourages visiting the district's website for virtual resources and recorded sessions from the bash. As the community comes together under the summer sun, the Back-to-School Bash stands as a testament to Dayton Public Schools' dedication to its students' futures.

Looking ahead, DPS has ambitious plans for the upcoming year, including expanded after-school programs, enhanced STEM curricula, and initiatives to boost graduation rates. The bash is just the beginning, signaling a year of growth and opportunity. Families are urged to mark their calendars and join in the celebration – after all, a strong start can make all the difference in a child's educational journey.

For more details, contact Dayton Public Schools at (937) 542-3000 or visit daytonpublic.com. Let's make this school year the best one yet!

Read the Full WDTN Dayton Article at:
[ https://www.yahoo.com/news/articles/dayton-public-schools-hosting-back-194223728.html ]