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.

Christy & Terry Jaillet

OUR CITY MEDIA PUBLISHERS

August 4

The Little Mermaid Summer Showcase

The Miramar Cultural Center and Little Broadway Summer Campers present Summer Showcase and The Little Mermaid. The show is the culmination of the students’ summer-long learning and is an entertaining evening. Tickets are $15 per person. For more info or tickets visit: www.MiramarCulturalCenter.org.

August 5

Storytime at The Frank

The Frank welcomes children and their caretakers for Storytime Hour! We will be reading books illustrated by Oliver Jeffers, followed by a guided art activity. Children will enjoy listening to “The day the Crayons Quit.” Noon till 1:00 pm at The Frank C. Ortis Art Gallery. For more info, call 954-392-2120.

June 12

Splash into the Pines

The City of Pembroke Pines is hosting Splash In the Pines from 10am - 1pm, a fun-filled day of water-themed play, and many surprises for the residents of Pembroke Pines. Kids and families will have an opportunity to enjoy water slides, water games and lots of give-a-ways to help splash back to school. Food trucks and refreshments will be available for purchase. Hosted at West Pines Soccer Park, 350 SW 196th Ave. For more info, visit www.ppines/specialevents.

AUGUST 12-13

Nature Pop®! Back 2 School Weekend

AUGUST 5 Jamaica Emancipendence

Come out and celebrate the independence of the Island of Jamaica. Miramar Mayor Wayne Messam hosts this afternoon of culture. There will be a Kid’s Zone, Farmers’ Market, and Cultural Stage along with live music. Hosted at Miramar Regional Park and Amphitheater from Noon till 6:00 pm. For more info call 954-602-3178.

AUGUST 10

Summer Soiree @ The Frank

Join The Frank afterhours and Embrace art, music, and tasty treats. Enjoy walking through the pages of Oliver Jeffers: 15 Years of Picturing Books! 6:00 pm - 8:00 pm. Hosted at the The Frank C. Ortis Art Gallery, 601 City Center Way. For more info, call 954-392-2120.

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. For more info, call 954-473-2955.

August 18

Key West Handprint Fabrics

Join us for a lecture about Florida and printmaking presented by Cori Convertito, lead historian at the Florida Keys History Center. Learn the story of how Key West Hand Print Fabrics became a backbone of industry to the Island from 7-8pm. Hosted at Studio 18 Art Complex, 1101 Poinciana Drive.

August 21

First Day of School

It’s back to school for Broward County Public School students. Kids will be on the roas 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!

August 20

Soggy Doggy Event at Regional Park

The Aquatic Complex will be open to families and their furry friends. Small dogs are welcome from 11:00 am - 1:00 pm; large dogs (over 22lbs) are welcome between 1:00 pm and 3:00 pm. For more info call 954-883-6955 or scan the QR code.

June 26

Carve, Ink & Repeat Workshop

Learn the basics of relief printing in this beginner-friendly printmaking workshop led by Studio 18 resident artist and member of Miami-based studio IS Projects, Aliya Gordon. Ages 18+ (16+ with parent or guardian present for the entire workshop). 10:00 am - 1:00 pm at Studio 18 Art Complex. FREE materials will be provided. For more info, call 954-961-6067.

August 22

U.S. Passport Applications

Need to apply for or renew a passport?

The City of Miramar’s City Clerk’s Office is offering walk-in passport services to U.S. citizens from 9:00 am-Noon. The open house will take place at Miramar City Hall, 2300 Civic Center Place. For more info call 954-602-4357.

September 4

Labor Day

Labor Day is a federal holiday in the United States celebrated on the first Monday in September to honor and recognize the American labor movement and the works and contributions of laborers to the development and achievements of the United States.