BELLVILLE, Ohio — It was a big day Saturday at Clear Fork Middle School as the Salvation Army hosted the first “back to school day” in the Valley.
Pam VanHorn, Clear Fork Valley coordinator for the Salvation Army, stated 235 letters were sent out in the Clear Fork school district for all children on free or reduced lunch programs.
“We had people waiting at the door at 7 a.m. this morning and we didn’t open until 8 a.m.,” Mike Bing, Salvation Army Clear Fork Valley president, said.
Physicians, Dr. Deborah Celic and Dr. Bradley Smith, were on hand to talk with the kids and parents, while doctors Jon Cooperider O.D. and Teresa Cooperider O.D. of Cleveland Clinic Park Ave. Vision Center and Mohican Eye Center, were doing vision screenings.
Pamela Brooks, Vision Center Manager of the Possum Run Walmart was also on hand.
Sherry Curry, cosmetology instructor at Knox County Career Center, was giving “back to school” haircuts.
“I’ve given 10 haircuts so far this morning,” Curry said.
Bellville Police Officer Wallis was on hand, bringing his children for the event.
Scott Gearhart, Jefferson Township/Bellville Fire Department, showed the young students the equipment they use when fighting fires or saving lives.
Ashley Keen was there with John Hoar, Butler third grader, who tried on the fire suit.
The children all said they had a good summer, swimming and playing, but they’re ready to go back to school.
“The best part of school is gym,” said Hoar.
