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Thousands of students and parents filled Ranchview High School on July 31 as the Carrollton-Farmers Branch Independent School District (CFBISD) hosted its third annual Back-to-School Fest, helping families prepare for the first day of classes on Aug. 11.
The event brought together district departments, community organizations and volunteers to provide free backpacks, school supplies, haircuts and immunizations while connecting families with programs and services available throughout the school year.
For families new to CFBISD, the event also served as a convenient place to complete student enrollment and learn more about the district before the school year begins.
The community also stepped up in meaningful ways throughout the day. NCR Atleos surprised the district with a $2,000 donation to help provide additional resources for students as they return to school. When organizers identified a need for more hairstylists, CFBISD graduate Sarah Arenas of Look Good Feel Good volunteered her time to provide free haircuts, helping ensure more students were ready for the first day of class.
"Back-to-School Fest is a great opportunity to welcome our families, connect them with valuable resources and help them prepare for the best first day of school," Superintendent Dr. Wendy Eldredge said. "We're grateful to our community partners and volunteers whose support helps make this event possible each year."
Community partners filled the halls and gymnasium with information booths, activities and resources, while volunteers helped distribute school supplies, answer questions and guide families through the event.
Families who were unable to enroll before the event still have opportunities before the school year begins. CFBISD's Enrollment Center, 1820 Pearl St. in Carrollton, will offer extended enrollment hours from 4-6 p.m. Wednesday, Aug. 5, and from 9 a.m. to noon Saturday, Aug. 8.
The final extended enrollment day also falls during Texas' annual Sales Tax Holiday weekend, Aug. 7-9, when qualifying clothing, footwear, school supplies and backpacks priced under $100 can be purchased tax free, giving families another opportunity to save before the first day of school. The exemption applies to qualifying purchases made in stores and online.
CFBISD's annual Back-to-School Fest reflects the district's continued effort to remove barriers that can keep students from being ready to learn while strengthening partnerships between schools, families and the community.
Classes for the 2026-27 school year begin Tuesday, Aug. 11.
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