Terrell County Hosts Urgent Back-to-School Event for 300 Students
UPDATE: Just hours ago, the Terrell County Sheriff’s Office successfully hosted a critical “Badges & Backpacks” event, providing nearly 300 students with free backpacks and essential school supplies in Dawson. This urgent initiative, held on July 29, 2023, aimed to ensure students start the school year equipped for success.
The event, organized in partnership with South Georgia Starz Academy and the Department of Public Health, offered not only school supplies but also food, mental health resources, and entertainment for families. Sheriff Vernon Jessie emphasized the importance of community support, stating, “This event is about giving back to the community,” reflecting his commitment to enhancing local resources.
As students enjoyed activities such as basketball and bouncy houses, Kiva Hall, executive director of Starz Academy, noted the event’s significance in fostering community awareness in rural areas. “Dawson is a rural community where resources are very scarce,” Hall explained, highlighting the need for such initiatives.
Beyond the fun, the event provided critical information on mental health and wellness. Attendees accessed counseling resources and learned about the 988 suicide and crisis hotline. In a powerful moment, students signed a pledge to remain drug-free as they embark on their school year, with over 110 students committing within the first two hours.
Public health analyst Phyllis Rolle remarked on the urgency of these messages, especially amid rising concerns over substance misuse, including vaping and the fentanyl crisis. The Terrell County Department of Health also provided free Narcan, a lifesaving medication that reverses opioid overdoses, further emphasizing the event’s focus on health and safety.
Local parent Melissa Reese, whose daughter is entering the 10th grade, expressed gratitude for the event. “There is a strong need for events like this,” she stated. “They help keep kids out of the streets and provide essential resources.” Reese and her daughter were among those who benefited from the free backpacks, which are often hard to come by in their community.
Sheriff Jessie and Hall confirmed that this will not be the last event of its kind. They plan to hold more initiatives throughout the school year to continue supporting local families. Jessie also announced the introduction of a full-time School Resource Officer (SRO) dedicated to ensuring safety within schools. The SRO will work at least eight hours a day and participate in events outside school hours, conducting security checks to maintain a safe environment.
As the school year begins, Sheriff Jessie urges parents to instill confidence in their children. “Make sure you give them a good affirmation when they leave home,” he advised. “Let them know they are smart, they are amazing, they are beautiful.”
With community support and proactive measures in place, Terrell County is taking significant steps to ensure its students return to school prepared and safe. Stay tuned for further updates on upcoming community events and initiatives dedicated to student welfare.
