SEBRING — Sebring Local Schools partnered with the United Way of Youngstown’s Success After 6 program and other community supporters to provide 197 backpacks filled with school supplies.

The Back to School Bash this week at Sebring’s local pool drew more than 350 people, including students in grades pre-K to 12 and more than 100 families.

“It was a great afternoon full of fun, with swimming, food, a magic show, prizes and the opportunity to welcome and reconnect with our students and their families,” said Nicole Hanley, principal at B.L. Miller Elementary. “We’re really grateful for all of those who contributed, making the event a total success and getting our students excited to start the year.”

The annual bash was made possible through the support of many, and the ongoing partnership with United Way of Youngstown, which provided the backpacks and school supplies.

“The generous support we receive from our Trojan staff, volunteers and community partners continues to amaze me each year,” Jill Dennis, Sebring Local School District’s family engagement coordinator, said. “From packing the bookbags to making sure the event ran smoothly, their contributions make it possible for our students to have the resources to return to the classroom.”

Dennis also serves as the district’s coordinator for United Way’s Success After 6 program, marking the second year of its participation in the program.

Additional supporters of the event were Partners in Education at B.L. Miller Elementary, Giant Eagle, the Sebring pool staff, Sebring Parks and Recreation, Sebring staff and administration and community volunteers.

Students received purple postcards for displaying and learning the B.L. promise, “Be responsible, be respectful, be safe and be positive,” which was organized by members of the school’s Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports team.

Families also received additional information for the after-school program offered by Success After 6, as well as ALTA’s school-based mental health and awareness services and Akron Children’s Hospital’s school-based health resources.