Scottsdale's Back to School Program helped more than 900 students start the school year

Hundreds of Scottsdale-area students headed back to the classroom this month with the supplies, resources and support they need to succeed thanks to the city’s annual Back to School Program.

This year, the program served 429 families and 920 students, helping income-eligible pre-K through 12th grade students prepare for the school year with essential items and valuable community resources.

In addition to providing backpacks, school supplies, clothing and shoes, the event connected families with a variety of services designed to support student success and family well-being. During the event:

• 830 books were distributed by Scottsdale Public Library
• 150 dental screenings were provided by Neighborhood Outreach Access to Health (NOAH)
• 769 families connected with resources and services available through NOAH

“The Back to School Program is about much more than school supplies,” said Scottsdale City Manager Greg Caton. “It’s about making sure students begin the school year with confidence and giving families access to resources that help them thrive throughout the year. We’re grateful for the community partners who make this program possible.”

The program is a collaborative effort supported by city departments, nonprofit organizations, schools and local businesses that share a commitment to helping students succeed.

Partners and sponsors for this year’s event included:

• Scottsdale Community Partners
• Scottsdale Public Library
• NOAH
• Scottsdale Unified School District and Nutrition Services
• Skechers
• First Things First
• Scottsdale Aquatics
• McCormick-Stillman Railroad Park
• Vista del Camino Community Center
• Scottsdale Police Department
• Scottsdale Water
• Scottsdale Parks and Recreation
• Scottsdale Solid Waste Services

Beyond providing support at the event, many city departments continue to serve students and families throughout the year.

Scottsdale Public Library offers educational programming, literacy initiatives and resources for students of all ages. Scottsdale Parks and Recreation provides after-school and youth development programs that give children safe, engaging opportunities to learn, grow and stay active. Vista del Camino Community Center connects families with food assistance, early childhood resources, workforce support and other essential services.

Scottsdale Police Department officers work closely with schools to promote campus safety and build positive relationships with students, while Scottsdale Water, Human Services and other city departments provide educational programs and community outreach throughout the year.

“The generosity of our partners and volunteers helps ensure students have the tools they need to start the school year on the right foot,” said Human Services Representative Julia Bautista. “When a community comes together to support children and families, the impact extends far beyond the first day of school.”

Residents who would like to support next year's Back to School Program can donate school supplies through the end of August at Granite Reef Senior Center, 1700 N. Granite Reef Road. Monetary donations can also be made through Scottsdale Community Partners, the nonprofit organization that supports Human Services programs and initiatives throughout the city.

For more information about the Back to School Program and ways to get involved, visit ScottsdaleAZ.gov and search "Back to School."