This October, parents and other supporters of public education across the county will have a chance to come together at Greenville High School and help the system’s students.

The first Butler County Parent Extravaganza is set for 5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. Tuesday, October 5, with games, door prizes, vendors and much more planned.

“This is an opportunity for us to bring parents into the fold,” said BCSS superintendent Darren Douthitt.

“We hope that every parent in the community will participate. We have to find ways to build bridges so parents and the schools can communicate. We need to tear down some walls to do so.”

Amy Bryan, who is in charge of Special Programs for the district, is one of the organizers of the upcoming Extravaganza. One of the opportunities to be offered at the event, Bryan says, is a chance to learn about INOW’s Parent Portal, which allows parents to see their children’s grades, attendance, discipline and homework.

“Studies clearly show parental encouragement and involvement makes such a difference in the education achievements of a child. We want parents to know they are the child’s first teacher,” said Bryan.

While the event is taking place at Greenville High, Bryan emphasizes it is for parents from across Butler County.

“It is for all schools, and things we will share will be applicable to all students,” Bryan said. “There will be a number of vendors and community agencies there as well, along with refreshments. Other possible activities will include a display of student work, student performances, and/or a guest speaker.”

Bryan says this is just the first of a series of such events planned for the school year.

“We have different types of sessions planned at each of our schools throughout the year, with new training opportunities offered at each one to benefit our parents. We are working hard to better our parent training and get them more involved in the educational process,” Bryan said.

Douthitt said anyone in the county who is committed to public education is encouraged to be a part of the Parent Extravaganza.

“It’s a perfect chance to emphasize how important community involvement in our schools is,” he said.

Free childcare for ages 3 through 4th grade will be provided. And there’s an extra, added bonus for teachers and students.

The school with the highest percentage of parents in attendance will receive $2500 instructional supply money. The school with the highest percentage of faculty and staff in attendance will receive $2500 instructional supply money.