Students are preparing for the start of a new school year by gathering school supplies, updating wardrobes and filling backpacks. Photo courtesy of Marketplace 99

ELK GROVE, CA (MPG) - Students are preparing for the start of a new school year by gathering school supplies, updating wardrobes and filling backpacks.

The Elk Grove Unified School District’s first day of class for schools on the traditional/modified traditional calendar is Aug. 14.

A series of back-to-school celebrations are scheduled in the area, offering free school supplies, food, services and entertainment.

Here are a few events that students and their families can attend to be ready for the first day of school.

Report Card Review

GradePower Learning Elk Grove will host a Back-to-School Open House from 2 to 5 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 9 at its center located at 9261 Laguna Springs Drive, Suite 120.

The event aims to help parents better understand their children’s most recent report cards and prepare for the upcoming school year. Tutors will be available to discuss academic goals and create personalized learning plans.

Children are welcome to attend and can make their own keychain fidget toys during the event. Admission is free.

Get Ready for a Healthy School Year

The Elk Grove Unified School District hosts free summer walk-in immunization clinics at Monterey Trail High School in the small gym from noon to 5 p.m. Aug. 9, Aug. 11 and Aug. 12 for required immunizations to enter school.

This service is available to students wanting to enter the Elk Grove Unified School District, preschool through 12th-grade, who have no health insurance and/or insurance that doesn’t cover vaccines. Other eligibility requirements include being Medi-Cal eligible or being American Indian or an Alaskan Native.

A parent or legal guardian must accompany the child and families should bring the child’s yellow Immunization Card or an “out of compliance” letter from the school. No appointment or registration is necessary.

Dream Center Annual Back to School Bash

The Dream Center Sacramento will host its second annual Back to School Bash from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 9.

This is an outreach event designed to equip students for a successful school year, connect families with valuable community resources and create a fun, welcoming environment.

Held at North Laguna Creek Park, 6400 Jacinto Ave., the event serves families from Elk Grove by providing free backpacks, school supplies and access to helpful services.

This event is all about enjoying a day of celebration, connection and family-friendly activities.

Back-To-School Backpack Bash

The Marketplace 99, at 9134 East Stockton Blvd., will give away backpacks and school supplies for youth ages 10 and under on Saturday, Aug. 16.

The giveaway will be held until supplies last. The free event will start at 10 a.m. and end at noon.

Families are invited to join for a morning full of family fun before school is officially back in session. A free raffle will be held at the event for an opportunity to win prizes.

There will be a live deejay, a bounce house and games. Free breakfast treats will be available. 

Those interested in attending are encouraged to register at backtoschoolbackpack.eventbrite.com.