LUMBERTON — More than 7,000 people attended the Public Schools of Robeson County’s Back to School Celebration held on Saturday, August 17.
Parents, students and guardians lined up to meet school administrators and staff and to pick up free backpacks filled with school supplies at the event held Saturday at the Southeastern Agricultural Center. Some students also took advantage of the opportunity to get a school physical or sports physical at the Robeson Health Care Corporation Mobile Unit at the event.
“It was a breeze. Everybody was helpful,” said Chris Snell who attended the event with his daughter.
Annette McLeod attended the event with her grandson and family members.
“I enjoyed seeing all of our favorite principals and teachers,” she said.
McLeod encourages families to attend events like the Back to School Celebration in the future.
“If they don’t, they’re missing out,” she said.
PSRC Family Engagement Specialist Brendalyn Thompson said she was pleased with the turnout at the event.
“We were not sure what our attendance numbers would look like as a result of rescheduling the event ahead of Tropical Storm Debby’s impact. But, we were thrilled and overwhelmed by the fantastic turnout of parents and students as we gear up for the new school year,” Thompson said.
“I would like to give a special shoutout to our amazing staff members who worked tirelessly to make this event a success. It takes incredible collaboration and dedication to ensure these events run smoothly, and our staff truly went above and beyond. Their commitment and hard work were key to making this event memorable and impactful for everyone involved. I also want to extend a special thank you to Robeson Health Care Corporation for partnering with us to provide students an opportunity to receive sports or school physicals during the event,” she added.
The Public Schools of Robeson County will continue to hold free events throughout the year including the district’s Family Engagement Nights held quarterly to encourage parents to get involved in their child’s education and partner with the school district for their academic success.
“Parental involvement and feedback are essential as we work to address each child's individual needs and ensure they receive comprehensive support both within the school environment and at home,” said Jennifer Freeman, PSRC Assistant Superintendent of Student Services, Intervention and Support.
Parents and students will have another opportunity to meet school staff and principals during open house events on Aug. 22 from 1 p.m. to 6 p.m. at PSRC schools. Backpacks filled with school supplies are still available for parents and guardians who could not make it to the event. Those backpacks will be distributed at school open house events.
Students will return to school on Aug. 26, 2024.
PSRC Early College students returned to school on Aug. 13, 2024. The school previously held its open house event on Aug. 12, 2024.
“We are looking forward to a prosperous school year ahead,” said PSRC Superintendent Dr. Freddie Williamson. “We ask that parents and families partner with us in their child’s education as we strive to create a supportive and enriching learning environment. By working together, we can help each student reach their full potential, foster a love of learning, and build a strong foundation for future success.”
PSRC Multilingual Learner Lead Teacher Sandra Lopez Greenfield, right, assists with registration during the 2024-2025 PSRC Back to School Celebration held Saturday at the Southeastern Agricultural Center.