Students and parents line up for back-to-school event

HISD, City of Houston host annual fest

HOUSTON – Thousands of parents and students stormed Reliant Center to take part in a back-to-school fest Saturday.

The Houston Independent School District and the city of Houston partnered with other companies in the area to put on the event.

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Officials with HISD said at least 25,000 students and their parents received back packs, school supplies, uniforms and free immunizations.

The Houston Food Bank donated fresh produce for families in need and Texas barber colleges and hairstyling schools gave away free haircut vouchers.

HISD Board of Education President Michael Lunceford, Mayor Annise Parker and several other officials were also at the event.

"The students are the reason we're here," Lunceford said. "We want all children to be successful in school and being prepared is the first step. I'm pleased we can help families receive the basic requirements their children will need to start the school year off right."

Parker said the city has a vested interest in the success of children.

"On the first day of school, we want all of our students to walk into the classroom eager to learn and equipped with the tools that they will need to perform their lessons and succeed academically," Parker said.

HISD officials said Shell Oil Company and Motiva Enterprises LLC sponsored the event for the second year.