Scottsdale Students Receive Essential Supplies From School Program

As the new academic year begins, more than 1,000 Scottsdale students are stepping into classrooms equipped with essential supplies, thanks to the city's annual Back to School Program.

 

This initiative aims to alleviate the financial burden on families by providing necessary items to income-eligible students from pre-kindergarten through 12th grade.

 

The program's recent event, held at the Scottsdale Stadium Fieldhouse, saw a significant turnout. Students received backpacks filled with grade-appropriate school supplies, new clothing, and shoes. Additionally, the event offered free dental screenings, library books, and connections to various city resources, ensuring a comprehensive support system for the students.

 

Julia Bautista, a human services representative, emphasized the Scottsdale program's impact, stating, "Seeing kids smile picking out a backpack, shoes, and other items for the upcoming school year makes all the hard work that goes into the event worth it."

 

The success in Scottsdale with the Back to School Program is made possible through the collaboration of several community partners, including:

 

• Scottsdale Community Partners
• Scottsdale Unified School District
• First Things First
• Neighborhood Outreach Access to Health (NOAH)
• Police Officers of Scottsdale Association (POSA)

 

Beyond the Back to School Program, Scottsdale offers ongoing support to students and schools. The Scottsdale Police Department has enhanced its School Resource Officer program by adding three more officers across three school districts.

 

These Scottsdale officers focus on building relationships, providing safety education, and addressing issues proactively. Additionally, three crisis response canines are now serving students, offering comfort during challenging situations, with plans to add another canine in the upcoming school year.

 

Scottsdale Parks and Recreation provides after-school programs for over 360 students across six Scottsdale Unified School District campuses. These programs offer safe, structured, and affordable opportunities for children to learn and play after school hours.

 

The Scottsdale Public Library recently concluded a record-setting Summer Reading Challenge, engaging thousands of children, and partnered with the Scottsdale Unified School District to support the district's summer meal program.

 

Community members looking to support next year's Back to School Program can donate school supplies at the Granite Reef Senior Center, located at 1700 N. Granite Reef Road, through the end of August. Monetary donations can be made through Scottsdale Community Partners, a nonprofit organization that assists Human Services programs.

 

For a full list of needed items, visit the City of Scottsdale's official website and search for "Back to School."

 

Through these collective efforts, Scottsdale continues to demonstrate a strong commitment to its students, ensuring they have the resources and support needed for a successful academic year.