SL Back-to-School Bash a success
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SALINEVILLE -- Southern Local Schools' 2023 Back-to-School Bash was another big hit, drawing students, parents and community members in the leadup to the first day of classes.
Hundreds of people gathered on the campus Thursday for food, fun, free stuff and fall sports introductions prior to the start of school on Aug. 23. Sixth-grade and online orientations took place before festivities kicked off and about 40 vendors, including community groups, Columbiana County agencies, churches and school organizations, provided information, school supplies, giveaways and more. Kids also enjoyed inflatables from Sunshine Party Rental of East Liverpool plus music by DJ Chelsea Householder, face painting and a dunking booth while the night closed with a Meet the Indians event featuring school athletes.
Organizer Laura Krulik, who serves as district special education coordinator, said the bash has been held for well over a decade and drawn upwards of 1,000 people. She added that the number of vendors doubled this time and she was grateful for the response.
"This was the most vendors we've had including the District Showcase last spring," Krulik continued. "It went really well. We had more community partners attend than ever before. We had a great turnout and the kids and their families spent a ton of time playing over at the bounce houses and games. We served every bit of food and drink that we had for families."
She added that the feedback from vendors and attendees was positive and thanked everyone who made it all happen.
"There were so many staff members that helped make this event amazing! Paraprofessionals, teachers, guidance counselors, related service providers, administrators, cafeteria staff and custodial staff gave their free time over the summer to prepare for the bash in the days before the event. Many also turned out to help that night. I take the reservations for spots and put the information out there, but without other staff members, this event would not be possible."
Among the vendors were the Fair Foundation, East Liverpool City Hospital, Mercy Health of Youngstown, Columbiana County Department of Jobs and Family Services, Family Success Network, SNAP-Ed, RSVP, Ohio State University Extension, Southern Local Alumni Committee, AmeriHealth Caritas Ohio, MacLean/Martin Chapel of CARE Funeral and Cremation Specialists, Blue Sky Employment, Salineville Methodist Church, OhioRISE, Cinderella Project, Utica Shale Academy, Touchdown Club, Columbiana County Mental Health and Recovery Services Board, CAACC Health, Behavioral Health and Dental Center, CAACJC Head Start, CAACC Mobility Management, Family Recovery Center, Opportunities for Ohioans with Disabilities, Columbiana County Board of Developmental Disabilities, Columbiana County Educational Service Center/CASH Coalition, Salineville Church of Christ, Mahoning Columbiana Training Association, Southern Local High School Junior Class, Christina's House and the Ohio Department of Job and Family Services and Ohio Children's Alliance "It Takes Heart" Ohio campaign. School nurse Heidi McIntosh distributed about 200 bags of hygiene products at her health fair in the high school cafeteria while school counselors helped complete needed forms and the district gave away water bottles to use at the schools' filling stations. Attendants also had an opportunity to tour the elementary and high school buildings to familiarize themselves with classrooms, faculty and staff.
Several families on hand said they enjoyed the evening immensely.
"I like it. There's a lot of stuff for the kids," said Tori Needham, who attended with grandson Leo Corbisello.
"I liked the bounce house," commented Corbisello, an incoming kindergartener at SLES.
Others enjoyed seeing the children interact and receive free school supplies.
"It's good," added second-grader Cassidy Mercer. "I liked the fire truck [inflatable]."
Southern Local Elementary Principal Emily Brinker was pleased with the community engagement.
"It's good to see everyone here and the kids seem excited to be back," she added. "This is our biggest event."
SLHS Principal Rich Wright was ready to begin a new school year.
"We're ready to start and there's excitement in the air. This is my second year as principal and I'm ready for a good year."
"I think it was a fantastic turnout," Superintendent Tom Cunningham concluded. "We are appreciative of all the family members, vendors and staff who took part and look forward to getting back to school."