LUMBERTON — More than 7,000 people attended the 2025-2026 PSRC Back to School Celebration on Saturday, August 2, 2025, at the Southeastern Agricultural Center.
The event brought together families, school staff and community partners for a day focused on student success. Attendees met school principals and staff, received free backpacks and school supplies and accessed affordable school and sports physicals through Robeson Health Care Corporation’s Mobile Unit.
This year’s celebration introduced a new feature—the Stronger Together Back to School Connection Fair—developed in collaboration with community partners. The fair connected families with valuable resources from organizations such as the Robeson County Health Department, Robeson County Partnership for Children and other local agencies. Vendors, including food trucks, also participated.
“It was very valuable to come,” said Lynn Sealey, who attended the event with her family. “It’s a great opportunity, especially for low-income families.”
Parents also appreciated the convenience of on-site health services.
“Some kids don’t have access to that,” said Shan Sealey. “Some parents can’t get off work to take them for physicals, so this is really beneficial.”
Throughout the day, families engaged with schools, collected science kits provided by PSRC Science Supervisor Susan Miller-Hendrix, and received important information for the upcoming year. They also had a chance to learn more about the new construction of the Robeson County Career and Technical Education Center and Robeson Planetarium and Science Center which will open in December 2026.
“I love all of it because you get all of the information from the departments,” said parent Ronisha Bush.
PSRC Family Engagement Specialist Brendalyn Thompson expressed gratitude for the event’s success.
“I would like to give a special thank you to our incredible community partners, our school staff, and families for their support and dedication,” Thompson said. “We want to build on this momentum and encourage families to stay actively involved in their student’s education—whether by joining a parental advisory committee at the school or district level or supporting learning at home.”
Thompson also shared words of gratitude to Stacie Kinlaw, Sara Hardin, Tonya Bullard and Asa Revels “for jumping in with heart and hustle to make this year’s Back to School Celebration truly unforgettable!”
PSRC Assistant Superintendent of Student Services, Intervention and Support Jennifer Freeman emphasized the impact of family engagement.
“Parental involvement isn’t just something we encourage—it’s a proven key to student success,” Freeman said. “Research shows that students with engaged parents are more likely to earn higher grades, have better attendance and experience fewer behavioral issues. When families and schools work hand-in-hand, we can give every child the support they need to thrive.”
Families will have another chance to connect with schools during open house events on August 21, 2025, from 1-6 p.m. (except PSRC Early College, which held its open house August 7). Backpacks with school supplies will be available at these events for those who were unable to attend the celebration.
PSRC Superintendent Dr. Freddie Williamson reminded families that the start of school is a shared opportunity.
“A new school year is a fresh start for all of us—a chance for students to learn, grow, and reach for their goals,” Dr. Williamson said. “As families, you play a big part in that journey, and we’re glad to walk alongside you. Together, we can ensure every child gets the support, encouragement, and inspiration they need to reach their full potential—both in the classroom and in life.”
PSRC Early College High School students return August 12, with all other students beginning August 25.
For more information about getting involved in your child’s education, contact Brendalyn Thompson at brendalyn.thompson@robeson.k12.nc.us or 910-671-6000 Ext. 3560. School supply lists are available at robeson.k12.nc.us.