As Scottsdale students hit the books this fall, they did so with a little extra pep in their step, courtesy of the city's Back to School Program. The annual initiative ensured that more than 1,000 pre-K through 12th graders from income-eligible families were equipped with new school supplies, clothing, and shoes right out of the gate. According to a news release on the City of Scottsdale's website, the event also offered free dental screenings and helped parents sign kids up for school lunches, while also connecting them to additional city resources.
"The impact we make by giving students the essentials such as shoes, school supplies and backpacks is incredible, and we are happy to be part of their great start to the new school year," Julia Bautista, a human services representative, told the City of Scottsdale. The program wouldn't be possible without the support of community partners like First Things First, NOAH, and Skechers among others. And while backpacks and pencils are par for the course, Scottsdale doesn't stop there – the city extends its supportive hand throughout the year, inside and outside the classroom.
For instance, the Scottsdale Police Department isn't just about keeping the peace; it's about building community. This year they've strengthened the School Resource Officer program by adding three more officers into the mix, across three school districts. These officers are there to foster relationships, educate on safety, and dice anything resembling a problem in the bud. "In addition to the department's 13 school resource officers, seven Scottsdale schools receive officer support through the Arizona Department of Education’s School Safety Officer program," as mentioned in the City of Scottsdale.
It's not all work and no play, however. Scottsdale Parks and Recreation offers after-school programs across six campuses, providing over 360 students with a place to not only hunker down but also let loose in a safe and structured environment. Moreover, three Scottsdale Police crisis response canines are also part of the student support system, with plans to bring another furry friend aboard next academic year. When it comes to chilling out with a book, Scottsdale Public Library just wrapped up a summer of reading challenges and supported the Scottsdale Unified School District's summer meal program.
To support next year's Back to School Program, Scottsdale is calling for donations of supplies at Granite Reef Senior Center or monetary contributions through Scottsdale Community Partners.
