Back to school event helps students and families prepare for the school year

VANCOUVER — With fall approaching, area residents are preparing for the annual transition back into the school year.

For families with students in the Vancouver school district, Vancouver Public Schools is hosting the fourth-annual Go Ready! Back-to-School-Readiness Festival on Tue., Aug. 22 to make sure students are ready to start the school year off right.

The festival will be held at Hudson’s Bay High School, and will provide a variety of resources to help both students and families prepare for the new school year. Children will be able to receive free immunizations and haircuts. Gently used clothing will also be available for students.

Information about counseling, health care and housing will also be provided.

At the event, families can get information about services provided by the district. They can register children for classes, learn about bus routes, and apply for free or reduced-price lunch. Families will also be able to learn about special education services and screening tests for child developmental delays.

Attendees can also learn about employment opportunities with Vancouver Public Schools. Representatives from the school district’s homeless liaison and the Family-Community Resource Centers will be present as well.

Families and students can also get information and learn about over 75 community partners that provide services related to Vancouver Public Schools.

Entertainment and family-friendly activities will be provided. Attendees will also receive a free hot dog lunch.

The Go Ready! event is hosted by Vancouver Public Schools’ Family-Community Resource Centers. It is primarily intended to serve students and families that are eligible for free or reduced-price meals.

The Go Ready! Back-to-School-Readiness Festival will take place Tue., Aug. 22, from 10 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. at Hudson’s Bay High School. It is free and open to all Vancouver Public Schools students and families.