NASHVILLE, Tenn. (WTVF) — Metro Nashville Public School students haven't sat in their classrooms since March when the pandemic began. Even with virtual classes, the need for school supplies is still great for a lot of families.
"Never ever ever have I encountered anything like this," said Thomas Chapelle, principal at Moses McKissack Middle School in North Nashville. "Making sure that students still get the same support and the families get the same support that they would need if we were in person."
So the organization Creative Girls Rock came up with a one stop shop.
"They come in, they drive in, they let us know many backpacks they have. We give it to them," said Charmin Bates, the president and founder of Creative Girls Rock.
The Back to School bash officially started at 9:30 a.m. Saturday, but cars started lining up an hour early. Volunteers and school teachers helped pass out 300 backpacks filled to the zipper with school supplies. "Dry erase boards, dry erase markers, color pencils, markers," explained Bates.
The backpacks featured some life essentials too like toothbrushes, shirts and socks.
While the students were checking out their new goodies, parents could also register to vote.
"We just want to make sure people know when to vote," said Jessica Rich, the president of the National Pan-Hellenic Council of Nashville. "So why not pick up a voter registration card at the same time?"
Before cars pulled away, the Tennessee National Guard was also dishing out free Little Caesar's pizzas.
When there were rare breaks between streams of cars, some of the volunteers also found time for little socially distanced dance breaks.
Charmin Bates says her favorite part was just gathering safely with the North Nashville community. "That’s what matters most right now. We need each other the most during this time frame," she said.
If you'd like to learn more about other Creative Girls Rock programs, go to their website at https://www.creativegirlsrock.org/.
What is the rebound?
As Middle Tennessee works to rebound from the impact of the Coronavirus, we want to help. Whether it's getting back to work, making ends meet during this uncertain time, or managing the pressure, we're committed to finding solution. In addition, we want to tell your stories of hope, inspiration, and creativity as Middle Tennessee starts to rebound.
Find more in the sections below
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Safely Back to School
How schools are changing, and what you can do to help your child get the most from their education, in-person or virtual -
Making Ends Meet
Find help on topics from rent to food to new belt-tightening techniques -
Managing the Pressure
Feeling isolated or frustrated? Learn ways to connect with people virtually, get counseling or manage your stress. -
Doing What’s Right
Keep track of the way people are spending your tax dollars and treating your community. -
State of Education
Find ways to cope with the new normal around schools and celebrate students’ success in the age of Coronavirus. -
We're Open Y'all
Support local businesses doing their best to stay open and serve their customers during Covid.
