Miami-Dade students gear up for school with free backpacks, supplies

MIAMI — Miami-Dade County students are heading back to class Thursday, and hundreds got a head start on the school year Wednesday with free school supplies, backpacks and meet-and-greet events across the district.

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At Auburndale Elementary, students picked out free backpacks filled with school supplies, with plenty of colors and styles to choose from.

“I’m feeling excited!” said Keila, a fifth grader.

Second grader Camilla said she chose a purple backpack because it also had pink on it.

The Auburndale event was one of several held across Miami-Dade Public Schools on the eve of the new school year.

Local commissioners partnered with schools to welcome students and their families.

“I went to public school just a few blocks from here. I remember the first day of school. It was scary, intimidating — new kids, new teachers, principal,” said Miami Commissioner Rafael Rosado. “What we’re doing is welcoming them back so they can see our smiles, our excitement and our support for them.”

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The events also gave students a chance to get a preview of their classrooms and learn more about the programs they will take part in during the school year.

At Bowman Ashe/Doolin K-8 Academy in southwest Miami-Dade, students and families got a look at the magnet school’s STARTs program, which includes music and robotics.

Teachers were also getting ready to welcome students back.

“Meeting with parents and having that connection ultimately brings students that success,” said Rachel Ruiz, a teacher at Bowman Ashe/Doolin Academy. “I’m beyond excited. The butterflies are good butterflies. I’m ready to teach them.”

Several back-to-school events were still scheduled for Wednesday afternoon, including a school resource fare in South Miami Heights running until 4 p.m., an event at Shenandoah Elementary at 1 p.m. and another at Citrus Grove K-8 at 2:30 p.m.

As students begin returning to classes across South Florida, Local 10 wants to help celebrate the milestone by sharing your favorite back-to-school photos.

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