At SETA, we believe that every child deserves a strong start to their educational journey. One of the most impactful ways we support that belief is through our annual Kindergarten Transition Backpack Program—a tradition that has become a cornerstone of our Head Start mission.
Each spring, as our children prepare to graduate from our Head Start Program and take their first steps into Kindergarten, we send them off with more than just encouragement. Every child receives a thoughtfully packed backpack filled with essential school supplies—tools chosen not just for their utility, but for their role in building confidence and readiness.
“These aren’t just any supplies,” said Lisa Carr, Program Manager within our Head Start program. “They’re carefully selected based on input from our local school districts to ensure that each child has exactly what they need to thrive in their new classrooms.”
Inside each backpack, children will find:
- A notebook
- Crayons, markers, and pens
- Dice for counting games
- Chalk for creative play
- An informational booklet titled “My School”, designed to help children and families prepare for the transition to Kindergarten
This initiative has been a cornerstone of our program for over a decade. What started as a small gesture has grown into a large-scale operation. This year alone, staff assembled over 600 backpacks! Our team has become more efficient and enthusiastic each year, and the joy of seeing these backpacks delivered throughout May never fades.
But our support doesn’t stop with the children. We know that a successful transition to kindergarten also depends on the readiness of families. That’s why staff work closely with parents to establish routines that support school success. “From setting consistent bedtimes to creating designated spaces for backpacks and homework, we help families build habits that reduce stress and foster independence.”, said Lisa.
Because let’s face it—no one wants to be late on the first day of school because they couldn’t find a shoe!
SETA is not just preparing children for Kindergarten—we’re preparing families for a lifetime of learning. We’re proud to be part of a program that prioritizes readiness, resilience, and relationships. And we can’t wait to see our graduates shine in their new schools!
