Written by Tom Markland and published in The Journal on August 25, 2025, link to article HERE.
MARTINSBURG — Families filled the parking lot of Berkeley Heights Elementary School on Saturday for the school’s first-ever Back to School Bash, a new event hosted by the Parent Teacher Association aiming to connect families, staff and local businesses ahead as the school goes into a new academic year.
The PTA organized the event as a way to bring the school community together, while also giving families access to supplies, activities and information about various local organizations.
“We wanted a safe place for parents to come, meet other families, meet some of our staff, and learn about community resources, all in one place,” said PTA President Julia Linaburg. “At the same time, kids can play games, have fun and pick up school supplies if they needed them.”
The bash featured a wide range of local groups and businesses, including the Read Aloud program, Berkeley County Parks and Recreation, Code Ninjas, Squatch Cuts’ mobile barber shop. Representatives from the Scouts of America, Girl Scouts and Boys & Girls Club were also on hand, while local vendors such as Pop Up Soda, Truffle Queen and Kona Ice provided food and treats.
The Martinsburg High School Velocity Dance Team joined the event, offering face painting and temporary tattoos, while barbers and stylists gave free back-to-school haircuts.
Many of the vendor tables also doubled as part of a scavenger hunt that helped students gather school supplies as they made their way through the activities.
The Back to School Bash adds to a growing slate of activities hosted by the PTA in recent years, including a popular color run, pumpkin-and-pizza decorating night, literacy events, spring fairs, and the annual trunk-or-treat, which last year featured nearly 30 decorated cars and a hayride.
Linaburg said the PTA is focused on building school pride and strengthening ties among families, staff and students. She says she’s hopeful that the event will continue, becoming a staple for the Berkeley Heights community for years to come.
“We just really want to help make memories with our families,” Linaburg said. “Creating safe, fun events helps us build a stronger community for our students and staff.”
The PTA’s next event, their annual color fun run, is scheduled for Sept. 19 starting after school.