NORFOLK, Virginia – In just a few weeks, on August 19, Norfolk Public Schools students will begin their first day of school. This weekend, parents of public school students in the city will have the opportunity to stock up on essentials for free.
NPS is hosting a back-to-school celebration on Saturday. It will be held at the Norfolk Scope Arena, so weather won’t be a problem. There will be lots of giveaways like backpacks and school supplies. Health screenings and immunizations will also be offered, but pre-registration for these services is recommended at this link.
News 3 anchor Blaine Stewart spoke with LaEunice Brown, the community engagement coordinator for Norfolk Public Schools. She explained that this event is an opportunity for students to meet many people in the school system and relieve first-day-of-school nerves.
See also: Back to school checklist for parents and students before the new school year
Back to school checklist for parents and students at the start of the new school year
“They’ll meet some teachers and principals. Our principal and the mayor will be there, too, so they’ll get to meet some people face to face,” Brown said. “It’s just a great way to get them pumped up and ready to go back,” she added.
Community partnerships with local businesses make these giveaways possible.
The event begins at 10:00 a.m. on Saturday and runs until 2:00 p.m. Admission is free (including parking) for all Norfolk preschool through 12th grade students.
A similar event is planned for Virginia Beach City Public School students. That city’s free Back-To-School Care Fair will be held Saturday, August 17, at the Virginia Beach Convention Center.
