A local youth center is helping families get their children ready to head back to school with an event this past weekend. Students got the tools necessary to return to school safely, while families also received a helping hand. Mary Nelson's Back to School giveaway got canceled last year due to COVID. This year’s event marked the 20th year. Parent Sandy Cooper, shares the value of the school assistance.
“It provides a lot that we don’t have to buy for the kids. … with what’s going on, it really helps, whether people believe it or not. The lines are long to stand in, but sometimes it’s really worth it. It really does help out.”
Sponsor Mary Nelson explains the giveaway goes way past paper and pencils.
“So basically, everything is free. Food, household items, backpacks, clothing, shoes, everything is free.”
IN addition to backpacks, paper and pencils, and other school needs, volunteers helped hand out cloths, food, and other family necessities. There was also a booth at which people could get a COVID vaccination.
Parents and students who showed up are expressing cautious optimism that the school year can make it through with kids in classrooms, rather than virtual or hybrid learning models that many believe stunted learning and growth.
“We had to do virtual schooling and we had to wear masks to go to school, so it didn’t really feel like a normal school year,” said one student.
Another student is anxious to not have a repeat of last school year.
“It was difficult. It was hard to balance sleeping and everything. Uh, my grades were ‘iffy’ mostly because I’m a hands-on learner, and with everything being online, it was difficult.”
School is set to start in two weeks, with masks in place, for students and all staff. But the Monday thru Friday schedule of showing up to classrooms and desks should be in place when the semester begins.