Luray event helps students start school year with confidence
~ Press release provided by People Inc.
LURAY — Back-to-school season can be exciting, but for children who don’t have everything on their supply list or the new things their classmates may be showing off, returning to school can also bring anxiety.
People Incorporated of Virginia and several community partners came together at Luray Meadows Apartments on August 13 for the first Back to School Bash, providing students from preschool through high school with supplies, support, and encouragement to help them start the school year prepared and excited about what they can achieve. The event was made possible by a grant from Shenandoah Valley Electric Cooperative.
“Education can open doors for a child long after the first day of school,” said Kelli Smith, Vice President and Chief Impact Officer at People Inc. “When barriers to learning are removed and children have the tools and encouragement they need to succeed, they’re able to build confidence, develop skills, and create more opportunities for themselves in the future.”
The grant helped People Inc. fill gaps in students’ required school supplies, providing items such as headphones and dry erase markers. It also helped create some of the excitement that comes with preparing for a new school year through activities like decorating water bottles, choosing backpack accessories, winning prizes, and enjoying ice cream treats.
Students also looked beyond the first day of school by setting goals for the year ahead. Some hope to make more friends, while others want to pass their Standards of Learning tests. Their goals will remain posted in the Luray Meadows community room throughout the school year as reminders of what they are working toward.
The event also connected families with resources and experiences from organizations across the community. Shenandoah National Park staff provided hands-on educational activities that several children said were their favorite part of the day. Page County’s Imagination Library provided a book for each of the younger students in attendance. The Luray Police Department donated school supplies and brought a member of its K-9 unit to meet families, while PACA, Page Alliance for Community Action, shared mental health and mindfulness resources.
Parents received information to help children transition back into school routines, including reestablishing regular bedtimes and encouraging reading before classes begin.
Support will also continue after the event. People Inc. reserved a portion of the grant funding so families may contact Luray Meadows Resident Services Manager Allie Carlson if their child still needs a backpack, clothing, or other back-to-school essentials.
Through events like the Back to School Bash, People Inc. works alongside families to address immediate needs and connect them with resources and opportunities that can lead to greater stability and self-sufficiency over time.
People Incorporated of Virginia is one of the state’s largest Community Action Agencies, serving families across 17 cities and counties through programs that expand access to housing, education, and financial stability.
For more information, visit www.peopleinc.net.
Photos courtesy of People Incorporated of Virginia
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