WEST MEMPHIS, Ark. — Hundreds of families stood in line Saturday morning for the massive West Memphis Back to School drive.
Thousands of backpacks packed with school supplies were given away to students.
In West Memphis, students start class on Tuesday, but Saturday, the district spent the morning doing their part to make sure students are ready.
Just in time for the first day of class, this weekend is tax-free weekend.
Items such as clothing, electronic devices, and school supplies will be tax-free now until Sunday night at 11:59 p.m.
However, multiple organizations, including the school district, city, and the Weems World Foundation, joined forces to help parents save even more money.
Weems World Founder Sonny Weems says his organization has been giving back to the community for over a decade.
“Just make sure that we are out there supporting our kids, encouraging them, and making sure that we’re there for them. That’s the most important thing,” Weems said.
Dr. Kimberly Wolfe, West Memphis School Board of Directors President, says the district serves more than 4,000 students, and she says she’s excited to see them all on the first day, bright and early.
“A good night’s rest is going to be essential so they are there on time and are not entering the building past that 7:55 tardy mark,” she said.