Back-to-school preparations focus on supplies and health

As the new school year approaches, several community resources and health recommendations are being highlighted for students and families in the United States.

In Tuscaloosa, Alabama, multiple organizations are hosting free back-to-school events. The Howard Initiative and Culver Road Church are providing backpacks and supplies for Pre-K through 5th-grade students. Narrow Way Church is offering supplies and community resources for students in Pre-K through 12th grade, while First African Baptist Church is hosting a movie night with snacks and school supplies.

From a health perspective, medical professionals emphasize the importance of annual preventative checkups. Dr. Rhyan Bailey of WVU Medicine Princeton Community Hospital notes that these visits can identify underlying issues such as vision, hearing, asthma, or behavioral problems that could impact school performance. Parents are also advised to ensure children are up to date on required immunizations and to coordinate medication administration with school nurses.