AISD helps parents cut costs on back to school supplies

Thousands of Austin Independent School District students are getting ready to go back to school on August 20th.

For most parents that means sorting through endless lists of school supplies that can end up costing hundreds of dollars. 

To help with costs, AISD is providing free backpacks and school supplies to students. 
"Last year just for two children it was well over 200 hundred dollars," said Devin Istre.

This year the single mother of two is taking a different approach to back to school shopping. 

"Picking up school supplies and getting free information," said Istre.

She along with thousands of parents and students waited in long lines Saturday afternoon at the Palmer Events Center for the 13 Annual Back to School Bash.

"I don't mind standing in line for an hour to get stuff for my children so we are not struggling and they're not going to school under prepared," said Istre.

The event was a one stop shop for families providing students with free haircuts, eye exams, wellness screenings, and backpacks full of school supplies.

"Having to buy multiple boxes of crayons and multiple notebooks and glue stuff like that can add up."

Istre said the event gives parents a break by reducing the cost of back to school shopping. While giving students what they need to be successful.

"I am forever grateful I don't mind standing in line for an hour to get stuff for my children so we are not struggling and they're not going to school under prepared."

More than 4,000 backpacks were given out to students.  Along with freebies students were schooled on safety.

"To get drivers to think and be aware that school is about to start. So that they can think about watching for the kids. We are going to have so many kids walking crossing streets. During school year we educate children on how to look for cars and make sure they are going to corners and cross walks to cross," said City of Austin Safe Routes to School Education Coordinator Rhonda Bolick, 

The City of Austin's Safe Routes to School program gave students and parent's safety tips on how to get to and from school safe.

"We need drivers to be aware so we can keep are kids safe," said Bolick.  

Istre said this year she has a tight budget. But thanks to the event, her family is off to a good start.  

"I am forever grateful."