Southern Local kicks off school year with Back-to-School Bash

Southern Local schools celebrated the start of the new academic year, which began Sept. 2, with a Back-to-School Bash that drew hundreds of students and families to campus.

Attendees toured the school, collected supplies, met teachers and explored classrooms as they prepared for the first day. More than 20 community groups and local businesses set up information and vendor tables outside, offering resources, giveaways and treats.

Southern Local High School Principal Jess Krulik and Junior High Principal Jordan Wrask held orientation sessions for incoming freshmen and sixth graders. School officials also provided backpacks filled with supplies, free toiletries and hot dogs, while local churches and organizations distributed snow cones, hygiene products and other items.

Groups participating included Everyone’s Welcome Church, Salineville Church of Christ, Utica Shale Academy, East Liverpool City Hospital, Opportunities for Ohioans with Disabilities, Southern Local Touchdown Club, Community Action Agency programs, the Wellsville Public Library and the Columbiana County Board of Developmental Disabilities. Sunshine Party and Event Rental provided inflatables, while DJ J.T. Higgins played music.

Elementary Principal Emily Smith, who organized the event, estimated about 700 people attended. “The purpose is to kick off the start of the school year,” Smith said. “We handed out backpacks, school supplies, hygiene products and much more. The bash is always a fun and exciting event.”

Students said the highlights included bounce houses, snow cones and reuniting with friends. Parents echoed the enthusiasm, with Sarah Pitts calling the event “wonderful” and Brooke Heath noting her family returns every year.

Krulik, formerly assistant principal at the high school, and Wrask, previously assistant principal at the elementary, said staff members were well-prepared and eager to begin the year. “We are 100 percent ready,” Krulik said. Wrask added, “The staff is on the same page, and the whole reason we’re here is the students.”

Superintendent Tom Cunningham praised the strong turnout. “It seems to get better every year with all of the community support,” he said. “It’s great to see all the smiling faces as we get school started.”