Kate Skonberg
The first day of school is fast approaching and while students are soaking up the last few weeks of summer, teachers are busy preparing classrooms and parents are checking off school supply lists.
Unfortunately, these additional expenses at the beginning of the school year create a financial strain for many families in our community. This leaves teachers reaching into their own already strained pockets to ensure students have what they need to succeed in the classroom.
The first day of school is crucial to set the tone for the learning that will take place throughout the school year. Having students in the classroom equipped with the supplies they need allows learning to begin on day one. To ensure our students— from kindergarten to high school seniors— are #FirstDayReady, there's still much to be done. That's why Hamilton County provides easy ways for local businesses, organizations and community members to help.
Join us Saturday, July 27 for the Hamilton County Schools #BetterTogether Service Day. You and your organization have the opportunity to volunteer in schools across the district getting our campuses #FirstDayReady— AND drop off school and office supplies to ensure students and teachers have what they need in the classroom.
To ensure the #BetterTogether Service Day is a success, you can also donate items, such as paintbrushes, cleaning supplies, mulch, garbage bags, etc. For donations and questions, please email Kate Skonberg.
Then, celebrate with our students, families and teachers at the annual Back to School Bash on Saturday, Aug. 3 at the First Tennessee Pavilion from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. This event will build on the excitement leading up to the first day of school with fun, food, student performances and resources for the whole family. School supply donations will be accepted.
Business owners can get involved by signing up to be a vendor. Help promote your business while supporting the future of Hamilton County’s workforce. Instead of paying a traditional vendor fee, all vendors are asked to distribute school supplies— pencils, paper, folders, markers, etc.— at their tables.
School supply donations are also accepted at the central office weekdays from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. through Aug. 2.
Chattanooga 2.0 is a collective impact coalition— a true convening of our community members, thought leaders, nonprofits and businesses— with a vision to make Hamilton County the smartest community in the South. It will take all of us to continue building upon the progress we’ve made.
Now is the time to support our students, teachers and schools and come together to ensure all Hamilton County children have access to a high-quality education and are #FirstDayReady.
