By 6:15 a.m., families were already lining up outside Dekaney High School, ready to take part in Spring ISD’s annual Back-to-School Expo. The event didn’t begin until 8 a.m., but the early arrival set the tone for what many described as one of the busiest and most energetic Expos in recent memory.

Organized by the district’s Family and Community Engagement (FACE) Department, the event welcomed families from across the district for a morning filled with support, resources, and excitement for the new school year.

“We are proud and grateful to have been part of an event that supported over 3000 attendees in getting ready for the new school year,” said Zulma Xitumul, Family Empowerment Specialist. “It was truly rewarding to support our families with registration, connect them with school staff, and provide access to valuable community resources — all in one welcoming space at Dekaney High School. Events like this highlight the power of collaboration and the importance of ensuring every family feels supported, informed, and ready for a successful start to the school year.”

Just inside the building, campus teams greeted families at their assigned classrooms, offering help with registration and enrollment. Many rooms were decorated with school spirit and designed to create a welcoming space for both students and parents. Gloria Marshall Elementary brought music and balloons to energize their space, making it easy for families to feel the excitement of a new academic beginning.

In addition to registration support, families received free school supplies, backpacks, haircuts for students, and hearing and vision screenings. This year, the backpacks — all 1,300 of them — came through a generous donation from the Education Foundation of Harris County in partnership with the office of Senfronia Thompson, helping meet a vital need in the community and ensuring students could start the year ready to learn.

At the 21st Century Community Learning Centers (CCLC) table, Carla Jones-Wiley, Program Director for the organization, shared her thoughts on the value of the event.

“Events like this are important because it fills a need,” Jones-Wiley said. “All the parents and families here are willing to do what it takes for their kids. To be able to provide information not just about the CCLC program but also the other programs is very valuable.”

Booths representing departments such as Career and Technical Education, Advanced Academics, Fine Arts, and Transportation gave families a closer look at the programs and opportunities available in Spring ISD. Whether exploring afterschool options, learning about high school endorsements, or asking questions about bus routes, families walked away with answers and resources that would carry them into the school year.

“We were thrilled to see all these families come together in preparation for a strong start to the 2025–2026 school year,” said Xitumul. “The energy, engagement, and sense of community were truly inspiring as families, staff, and partners united to support student success.”

By midmorning, the sense of community was unmistakable. Pre-K learners clutched their very first backpacks while high school students reviewed class schedules and compared notes about the year ahead. The 2025 Back-to-School Expo reflected a district united in purpose, ready to launch the new school year with energy, pride, and shared commitment.