Navigating the Back-to-School Season in the Modern Age

As we bid farewell to the sun-kissed days of summer, it’s hard to believe that another school year is just around the corner. With the arrival of August 21st, the first day of school for most children in the area, it’s time to gather the necessary school supplies, select the perfect lunch box, and wrap up those summer reading assignments. However, preparing for school has become increasingly intricate over the past two decades, as technology and educational options have evolved.

Gone are the days of covering textbooks in brown paper bags. The rapid advancement of technology has transformed the way students engage with learning materials. From downloading software onto smartphones, iPads, and Chromebooks, to accessing a vast array of digital resources, students now have a world of knowledge at their fingertips.

After-school programs have blossomed into a diverse range of opportunities, surpassing the traditional offerings of sports and music. Today, students can choose from an array of enriching activities, including computer classes, dual language programs, and much more. Likewise, parents now have an abundance of educational options for their children. In addition to traditional public and private schools, charter schools, home school, and virtual schools have emerged, providing families with a broader selection tailored to their needs.

If your family finds itself in the midst of the back-to-school preparations without a concrete plan, fear not! Our City is here to lend a helping hand. Inside this issue, you’ll discover our comprehensive Back-to-School Guide, designed to assist you in navigating the educational landscape. Packed with valuable information on the area’s top preschools, private schools, and educational programs, as well as an extensive directory of after-school activities ranging from arts to YMCA programs, this curated guide aims to provide practical support as you gear up for the upcoming school year.

Amidst the hustle and bustle of back-to-school preparations, it’s important to savor the remaining weeks of summer. Cherish the sun-drenched days, create lasting memories, and relish the freedom that this season offers. Before you know it, school will be back in session, and a new chapter of growth and learning will begin.

So, take a deep breath, enjoy the fleeting moments of summer, and rest assured that you have the resources and support to embrace the forthcoming school year with confidence.

August 5

Work Out & Get Motivated!

Celebrate summer with an outdoor workout. Led by personal trainer Susan Malinski, this session will get your blood flowing and set you off with a positive mindset. Led by personal trainer Susan Malinski, these sessions will get your blood flowing and set you off with a positive mindset. Boot camps are held at Peace Mound Park at 10:00 am. For more info visit www.SusanMalinski. com or call or text 954-245-2071.

AUGUST 12-13

Nature Pop®! Back 2 School Weekend

Sean Kenney’s Nature POP®! is inspired by the pop art movement, Sean’s work on Nature POP! plays on that movement’s principles by blurring the boundaries between austere and the everyday and draws from a belief that everything is interconnected. Guests will enjoy entertainment by DJ Anarchy on Saturday and the Florida Children’s Theatre Circus Spectacular, on Sunday, kids’ activities, receive Back 2 School giveaways* courtesy of Memorial Hospital, and play larger-than-life board games on the Wray Lawn. Hosted at Flamingo Gardens in Davie. 9:30 am - 5:30 pm

August 18

Eat to the Beat

Join your neighbors at the Suellen H. Fardelmann Sports Complex for a night filled with food, music and fun! A wide variety of food trucks will open at 6:30 pm, along with the band, Big City Dawgs. 6:30 pm - 9:30 pm at 10300 Stirling Road. For more info call 954-434-4300.

August 6

Story Time in the Children’s Garden

Gather at Flamingo Garden’s outdoor reading area in the shade of the southern live oak, where Ms. Barbara will read the children a story related to nature. After the story, Ms. Cintia encourages imagination and mindfulness through yoga. Children (and parents too!) participate in breathing exercises and yoga poses based on the subject of the story and the animals in our sanctuary. Afterwards, the children can express their own creativity by participating in a craft inspired by the story. Story Time is free with paid admission (or membership) to Flamingo Gardens. 12:30 pm - 1:30 pm at Flamingo Gardens in Davie. For more info, call 954-473-2955 x115.

August 14

Flamingo Gardens Orchid Society Meeting

Listen to "The Orchids of the Catasetum Alliance and How to Grow Them" presented by Olivier Turina. Olivier fell in love with orchids at the 2013 Ft. Lauderdale Orchid Show & it has become his passion ever since. He is currently on the board of the Fort Lauderdale Orchid Society & has a YouTube channel called "Orchid House" where he shares a few tips on growing some orchids. Join us at Flamingo Gardens, Mary N Porter Learning Center, 3750 S. Flamingo Rd. Doors open at 7:00 pm.

August 17

Davie-Cooper Library Book Club

Join friends as you discuss Billy Summer by Stephen King. This group meets monthly in the multi-purpose room at the Davie/Cooper City Branch Library. 2:00 pm - 3:00 pm. Scan QR code for more info.

August 19

Free Ballet Class

International Dance Academy is hosting an open house for ballet dancers aged three years to professional. Dancers ages 10 and under are invited to a free session at 1:00 pm. Class for ages 11 and up will begin at 2:00 pm. Refreshments will be available for parents and students. For more info visit www.IDAballet.com or call 954-476-4419.

August 21

First Day of School

It’s back to school for Broward County Public School students. Kids will be on the road and at bus stops early in the morning. Please drive carefully and remember to slow down in the school zones. Good luck to our students from everyone at Our City Media!