🎒 HUNDREDS OF FAMILIES TURN OUT AS COMMUNITY LEADERS UNITE TO KICK OFF THE SCHOOL YEAR! 🎒

As another school year draws closer, one thing becomes clear: our community is strongest when we come together.

Goodwin Elementary School was honored to welcome Illinois State Senator Javier Cervantes and Town of Cicero President Larry Dominick as they partnered to provide FREE backpacks to Cicero District 99 students and families. What unfolded was more than a giveaway — it was a community coming together with one shared purpose: helping every child begin the school year with confidence.

Throughout the evening, hundreds of families filled the Goodwin playground with excitement, laughter, and smiles. Children enjoyed face painting, bounce houses, playground activities, and an incredible dance performance by IB Quinceañeras that brought energy and joy to the celebration.

But beyond the fun, something even more meaningful was taking place.

Local organizations and community partners spent the evening connecting with families, sharing valuable programs, services, and resources that can make a real difference long after the event ended. It was a reminder that preparing students for success isn't just about school supplies — it's about building a community where families know they are supported.

Events like this don't happen because of one person or one organization. They happen because leaders, schools, businesses, community groups, and volunteers choose to invest in the people around them. When everyone brings something to the table, our students are the ones who benefit the most.

A sincere thank you Senator Cervantes, President Dominick, every community partner, vendor, volunteer, and everyone who helped make this special evening possible.

As we prepare to welcome our students back into the classroom, we're reminded that the school year doesn't begin with the first bell — it begins with a community that believes in its children.

Here's to an exciting school year filled with opportunity, growth, and success for every District 99 student!