News Summary

By Lucas Sullivan

It's estimated that parents across the United States will spend more than $6.6 billion on back-to-school clothing and supplies this year.

In fact, only during the months of October through December — the holiday shopping season — is more money spent on clothes, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

Springfield City Schools understands that this month can be a financial burden for some parents, so for the second straight year, the district is stepping in to ease the stress, along with the strain on parents' wallets.

It's called "Back Packs for Back To School" and is a partnership with the district, Office Depot and Lift Student Ministries that offers backpacks filled with school supplies for students.

Springfield has about 600 backpacks to give away to as many people today at South High School's gymnasium from 7 to 8 p.m.

The district is planning a back-to-school celebration tonight before classes start on Thursday.

"We want to encourage everyone to be ready for school on (Thursday)," said Mattie White, director of school services for the district. "We want everyone to be excited with the anticipation of a great year."

The event is open to everyone within the school district, but only those with children attending Springfield schools are asked to accept the back packs.

Schools across the district are starting almost two weeks early to make way for construction crews to finish the Springfield High School by the end of next summer.

The building, which will house students from North and South high schools next year, is slated to be finished by late July of 2008.

Contact this reporter at (937) 328-0373 or by e-mail at lsullivan@coxohio.com