On the evening of August 5, Sistersville Elementary School was buzzing with excitement as families from across Tyler County came together for the annual Back-to-School Fair. The building was filled with the joyful energy of new and returning students, parents, grandparents and community members, all eager to kick off the new school year with a celebration.

    The event, made possible through the generous support of Tyler County Schools, EQT, and the Tyler County Family Resource Network (FRN), was a resounding success, thanks in large part to the many hands that brought the celebration to life.

    Families enjoyed a wide range of free resources, including school supply giveaways and hygiene products. Health and wellness were also top priorities, with dental screenings provided by New Martinsville Dental and vision checks offered by the Friendly Lions Club. To help students look and feel their best on the first day of school, SmartStyle generously provided free haircuts on-site.

    Special appreciation was extended to Superintendent Mr. Shane Highley, BOE member Katrina Byers, and Principal Krista Devaughn for making it possible to host the fair at the school. The evening was also made brighter by the tireless efforts of school principals, teachers, staff, and students who volunteered their time and energy greeting all visitors with welcoming smiles.

    A heartfelt thanks was also given to cook’s, the district’s bus drivers, school nurses, secretaries, guidance counselors, school and community representatives, board office staff, school resource officers and over 40 vendors in attendance all of which played a key role in making the evening run smoothly.

    More than just a giveaway event, the traditional Tyler County Back-to-School Fair reflected the spirit of unity that helps define the Tyler County school community. With a new school year on the horizon, families left the event not just prepared, but inspired, and reminded that in Tyler County, everyone plays a part in student success.