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The Lowndes County Public Schools are setting the stage for a back-to-school rally movie-goers young and old alike are sure to enjoy.

The annual school year kickoff event is slated to take place Saturday, July 20 in The Calhoun School gymnasium. Boasting the usual meet and greet opportunity for families to get acquainted with teachers and administrators, this year’s event will also feature a showing of the family-friendly cartoon, “Inside Out.”

Lowndes County Public Schools Superintendent Samita Jeter views the rally as a vital part of back-to-school preparations.

“School employees will be on hand to welcome students and their families to the new school year,” Jeter said. “In addition, they will provide important information concerning educational expectations.”

Organizers encourage families to come early and to bring blankets or chairs. Along with entertainment and fellowship, the free event will also offer food, school supplies and giveaways.

Local organizations partner with schools in preparing local families for a return to the classroom by providing and passing out much-needed supplies during the event. One local organization partnering this year is the Lowndes County Extension Office.

“The Auburn University Cooperative Extension Office plans to participate in this year’s event showing our continuing support for education,” said Lowndes County Extension Coordinator Tana Shealey. “Last year our office donated paper, pencils, folders and book bags for 30 Lowndes County students. This year, each member of our team will donate notebook paper, pencils, highlighters, rulers and folders to those who attend the Back-to-School Rally. It is such a pleasure to work together helping families prepare their young learners for the new school year.”

According to Jeter, community organizations support the event in a variety of ways.

“We are pleased with the number of community organizations that eagerly participate in the back-to-school rally each year,” Jeter said. “Representatives of the organizations are expected to make a special effort to listen to parents, support them, and ensure that they have the tools to be active partners in their children’s school experience. When schools and community organizations work together to support learning, everyone benefits.”

The fun-filled event runs from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Individuals or organizations can support the rally by donating money or contributing supplies.

For more information, contact Demond Mullins at (334) 548-2131 Extension 1300 or dmulins@lowndesboe.org.