The Northside community came together for Northside Secondary’s Back to School Bash, a celebration designed to connect families with resources, build relationships, and prepare students for the year ahead.
This event provided families with more than just fun, it offered real support for the upcoming school year. Families received information about YMCA programming, therapy services, backpacks filled with supplies, and even new Nike shoes for students.
“Back to school supplies are essential for students to be prepared to learn every day,” Cole said. “Information from community organizations can also set students up for success outside of the classroom that leads into the overall child’s success.”
While the event was filled with exciting highlights, one memory stood out to Cole.
“My favorite moment was seeing kids recite rap lyrics to win free shoes,” she said. “I was most excited to welcome new families from the Northside community to campus and see multiple organizations come together to support and provide resources.”
Events like these are one of the many ways that YES Prep schools connect with their campus communities, but Principal Nicci Cole said the event was made possible thanks to strong collaboration with local organizations and the leadership of Student Culture Coordinator (SCC), Sh’Nay Ballard.
Building Relationships Through Community Partnerships
“Our SCC, Sh’Nay Ballard, networked with local community organizations to host this incredible event at YES Prep Northside,” Cole said. “It’s important for Northside to build relationships with local community organizations and provide opportunities for students and parents to learn more about what is offered in our community. When families have access to the resources they need, students are successful.”
Partners present at the Back to School Bash included:
- BB Management
- Pretty Girls With Cancer
- 1 Soundvibe Youth Community Entertainment Academy
- Certified Supplement
- MD Anderson YMCA
- Syn Da Artist
- Motion Media PR
- Sipsumoor Beverages
- America’s Best Eyewear
- Primerica
- Inspiring Minds Therapeutic Services
- Rodeo Dental, and many others.
Strengthening Community Connections
The Back to School Bash at Northside was a reflection of YES Prep’s commitment to families. By bringing together local organizations, Northside made sure students had both the supplies to succeed and access to resources that support their health, growth, and confidence in and outside the classroom.
To view photos from the event, click here.
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