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Learning & Loving It: Twister Game

Learning & Loving It is a series featuring simple, yet fun educational activities for home learning and virtual, interactive tutoring.

LRC Learning and Loving It
 

A Spin on Twister

Add a layer of learning to classic games that you already own. For this activity, we’ll add a math “spin” to the classic game of Twister. When students are fully engaged, they are learning, and by using games they already love, it makes it easy to add enrichment or reinforcement of basic skills.
 

Supplies: Twister board game (mat & spinner; could also make your own with online spinner and colored paper for dots), paper & marker to write numbers
 

Putting it together

    1. Set out the game mat, and grab the spinner
    2. Grab four sheets of paper (red, blue, yellow, green to match game colors)
    3. Select four numbers for player/s to create math facts from and write one number on each piece of paper

 

How to Play

    1. Spin the wheel
    2. Designate a number to correspond with each color (ex. Red 12, Blue 10, Yellow 9, Green 11)
    3. Before placing a hand/foot on board, player will call out a basic math fact that corresponds to color’s number (Use: +, -, x, / depending on player’s level) (ex. 9+3=12 for red)

 

Variations

  • Set flashcards on each Twister dot; Student will answer the fact before placing their hand/foot on board
  • For intermediate or middle school students, ask them to create an equation with three numbers (ex. for red: (5×3)-3=12 )

 
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Learning & Loving It: Retelling Bracelet

Learning & Loving It is a series featuring simple, yet fun educational activities for home learning and virtual, interactive tutoring.

LRC Learning and Loving It
 

Rainbow Retelling Bracelet

This colorful bracelet will help a child retell the story they just listened to or read and can be used by tutors, teachers and parents. (Adapted from Growing Book by Book)
 

Supplies: String or plastic lacing, 6 stringing beads (red, orange, yellow green, blue, purple would work best)  
optional- a strip of paper and crayons to color a rainbow if you do not have beads/string


LRC retelling bracelet

Putting it together

    1. Measure the string or lacing for the correct size to fit the child’s wrist.
    2. String the bead by placing the colors in rainbow order (red, orange, yellow, green, blue, purple)
    3. Tie the string together with a knot.
     
    If you don’t have string or beads, you may make a bracelet with paper and crayons, colored pencils or markers. Just cut the strip to fit their wrist, and color lines across the width to match the colors of the rainbow. (See image above)

 

Retelling the story

    Slide one bead over at a time, or put a finger on one colored line, beginning with red. Use prompts to ask questions with each bead.

 

Prompts

    R= Ready to hear a retelling of the story? The characters in the story are…
    O= On to where the story took place (setting)
    Y= You have to hear the problem… (something that happens that needs to be fixed)
    G= Get ready for a few more details… (major events)
    B= Better start bringing it to a close and telling you how the problem was solved…
    P= Picking my favorite part is easy. It was when…

 
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Learning & Loving It: Egg Activities

Learning & Loving It is a series featuring simple, yet fun educational activities for home learning and virtual, interactive tutoring.

LRC Learning and Loving It
 

“Egg-Citing” Egg Activities for Reading & Math

Easter may be over, but don’t pack away those plastic eggs! We have “egg-citing” ideas for tutors, teachers and parents to use for learning.
 

Supplies: Plastic eggs, Sharpie marker, optional word family list (see attachment)

Spinning Eggs

Spinning Egg

    For skills in both and reading and math

  • For reading practice, make these eggs using word families to build new words at the egg is turned.
  • Ex: the “_at” family and can use letters like “b” to make “bat” or “c” to make “cat”.

    •  
    Optional activities with spinning eggs:

  • Make eggs using math fact families such as “5+4=” and “3+6=” “9”
  • For competitive students, time them saying the words and have them try to beat their personal best

 

Break-Apart Eggs

Break Apart Eggs

    For skills in both reading and math

  • With this activity, you’ll write a word (or letter) on the top half and a word (or letter) on the lower half.
  • Ex: upper/lower case letters, synonyms/antonyms, compound words, contractions, math facts, number recognition, etc.
    Then, you’ll break the eggs apart and either mix them up or hid the halves and have students match them to put them back together again.

 
Download your word family list here.
 
See the demonstration on Facebook.
 
Click for additional Learning & Loving It activities!
 
 

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Learning and Loving It: Beach Ball Toss

Learning & Loving It is a series featuring simple, yet fun educational activities for home learning and virtual, interactive tutoring.

LRC Learning and Loving It
 
Beach Ball Toss
 
1. Take a medium or small beach ball; Inflate and write the following on each panel or section of the ball with permanent marker:

    a. Who?

    b. What?

    c. Where?

    d. When?

    e. How?

    f. Why?

 
2. Read the whole or a portion of a text—fiction or non-fiction.
 
3. The Player tosses the ball into the air and catches it with both hands. He or she then looks to see the questions touched by each thumb, selects one, and answers the question. For more than one player, the ball is tossed to another player who after answering the question tosses the ball to the next player.
 
4. Points can be awarded to determine a final score.
 
Note: If the player is playing alone and the answer is unknown or thought to be incorrect, the player may refer to the text or passage to find the correct answer. This game works well with a variety of different subjects and applications.
 

  • Beach Ball Toss Instructions

    •  
    Tried it? Share how it worked for you or add any suggestions on our Facebook page: LRCPolk.
     
    Click for additional Learning & Loving It activities!
     
     

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    Learning & Loving It: BINGO

    Learning & Loving It is a series featuring simple, yet fun educational activities for home learning and virtual, interactive tutoring.

    LRC Learning and Loving It
     
    LRC Math Bingo
     
    1. Create the Bingo components:

    master card, player’s card, individual pieces, tokens (can be markers, bottle caps, paper clips, poker chips, pennies, etc.)

    2. Set Rules: Bingo can be—

      a. Straight: 5 spaces are covered with a token in a straight line—across, down, diagonal

      b. Full House: Every space is covered with a token

      c. Picture Frame: Spaces in outside borders are covered with a token

      d. Other variations, such as the cross, the X.

    3. To Start: Player places token on Free Space; caller places individual pieces in a container, such as a Solo Cup, and thoroughly mixes.

    4. Caller draws an individual piece, and player places token on the matching space on his player’s card.

    5. Player shouts out “Bingo” when pre-determined spaces are covered
     
    Note: This game works incredibly well with children (and adults) of all ages– sight vocabulary words for the younger child; math facts and algebra problems or science for the middle school student; or foreign languages or history facts for the older student. It can be played with partners or groups. Students have fun creating their own cards and pieces.
     

  • Download a blank BINGO board here.
  • Click here to download a sample BINGO card. 

     
     
    Tried it? Share how it worked for you or add any suggestions on our Facebook page: LRCPolk.
     
    Click for additional Learning & Loving It activities!
     
     

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    2020 Programs — Now Enrolling!

    LRC’s First Courses & Programs of the 2020 Semester


    LRC Courses 2020
     
    Registration is open! Scroll down to find the Learning Resource Center’s first programs of 2020, all taking place at the LRC office located in Lakeland. One-to-one tutoring will take place at sites throughout Polk County.
     

    About: LRC’s One-to-One Tutoring Services include:

    • One-to-One instruction with a highly-qualified teacher
    • Multi-Sensory learning strategies geared toward individual learning styles
    • Improvement of student’s academic achievement
    • Enhancement of student’s self-esteem to improve school success
    • Flexible schedules and locations
    • Wide variety of subjects & exams

    Where: Throughout Polk County
    Cost: Based on the number of hours, gross annual household income and number of household members per FPL guidelines.
    Register: 1-to-1 Tutoring or call 863-688-9477 during office hours
     
     

    About: ACT Preparation provides an efficient and effective 23-hour course designed to help students achieve their best possible score on the ACT. This course provides: small classes with highly trained teachers, problem-solving strategies for analyzing and answering ACT questions, practice taking ACT exams, emphasis on test-taking techniques and strategies specific to the ACT that help build confidence and reduce test anxiety. *Cost of course includes the SAT book
    Cost: $575* for the full course *Ask about our Sliding Fee Scale
    Register: ACT Prep Courses or call 863-688-9477 during office hours
     
     

    About: SAT Preparation provides an efficient and effective 23-hour course designed to help students achieve their best possible score on the exam. This course provides: Small classes with highly trained teachers; Problem-solving strategies for analyzing and answering SAT; Practice taking SAT tests; Emphasis on test-taking techniques and strategies specific to the SAT that help build confidence and reduce test anxiety.*Cost of course includes the SAT book
    Cost: $575* for the full course *Ask about our Sliding Fee Scale
    Register: SAT Prep Courses or call 863-688-9477 during office hours
     
     

    About: Study Habits of Successful Students provides study skills and motivational strategies to prepare students in grades 6-8 to become more effective learners. Students learn and practice time-tested, effective, and efficient study strategies. The course is designed to offer small classes with activity-oriented lessons to help students learn and practice these study habits of successful students.
    Cost: $155* *Ask about our Sliding Fee Scale
    Register: Study Habits Courses or call 863-688-9477 during office hours
     
     
     

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    Polk 2019-2020 School Dates to Remember

    Click for 2020-2021 dates

    POLK COUNTY 2019-2020 SCHOOL CALENDAR

    Find Polk County Public School dates (first and last days, student holidays and early release days) here! Scroll down for a list of significant calendar dates for your PCSB student.
     
    From Polk County Public Schools:
    Coronavirus Information
    Schools are closed through May 1. District offices are also closed to the public through May 1. Limited PCPS staff will be present. PCPS Telephone calls will be managed from 8:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. School offices are open by appointment only. Please call your school to make an appointment.
    Distance learning for students will be underway for all students by Thursday, April 2. Teachers will contact students and parents with more information. Learn more about distance learning at PCPS by visiting polkschoolsfl.com/icp.
     

    Photo by Plush Design Studio from Pexels
     

    2019

    August 12 (Monday) First day of school
    September 2 (Monday) School Holiday- Labor Day
    September 11 (Wednesday) EARLY RELEASE DAY
    September 16 (Monday) Student Holiday
    October 14 (Monday) Student Holiday
    October 23 (Wednesday) EARLY RELEASE DAY
    November 6 (Wednesday) EARLY RELEASE DAY
    November 11 (Monday) School Holiday – Veterans’ Day
    November 25-29 (Mon-Fri) School Holiday – Thanksgiving Break
    December 23-January 3 School Holiday – Winter Break

     

    2020

    January 6 (Monday) First day back after Winter Break
    January 15 (Wednesday) EARLY RELEASE DAY
    January 20 (Monday) School Holiday – MLK, Jr. Day
    February 5 (Wednesday) EARLY RELEASE DAY
    February 17 (Monday) School Holiday – Presidents’ Day
    March 11 (Wednesday) EARLY RELEASE DAY
    March 23-27 (Mon-Fri) School Holiday – Spring Break
    April 10 (Friday) Student Holiday
    April 22 (Wednesday) EARLY RELEASE DAY
    May 25 (Monday) School Holiday – Memorial Day
    May 28 (Thursday) Last day of school

     
    For more information on the school calendar, upcoming events or Polk school information, please visit the Polk County Public Schools website where we obtained this information.
     
    Please contact LRC for your virtual tutoring needs or assistance with your child’s school packets. We can help virtually!
     
     
    For online resources, please visit LRC Online Academic Resources.
     

    If you feel that your child needs help, please do not hesitate to contact us to set up One-to-One Tutoring.

     

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    2019 Back-to-School Events and Supply Drives

    It may be hard to believe, but the end of summer is nearing. Celebrate the end of the break and prepare for the new school year with our guide of 2019 back-to-school bashes and donation drives in Polk County.
     

     

    Upcoming Dates

    Tax-free holiday: August 2-6
    Student orientation: Thursday, August 8
    First day of school for students: Monday, August 12
     

    Bashes

    Back to School First Friday
    When: Friday, August 2, 6 p.m. – 9 p.m.
    Where: Downtown Lakeland
    What: Join the Downtown Lakeland Partnership and MidFlorida Credit Union as well as community vendors in celebrating the start of a new school year with school-themed activities. First Friday features free family-friendly entertainment, activities, live music, art receptions, a car show, and the opportunity to check out a great, locally-owned restaurant or retail establishment on the first Friday of each month.
    Contact: info@downtownlakelandfl.com
     
    Taco Bus Backpack Giveaway
    When: Friday, August 2, 7 p.m.-10 p.m.
    Where: Taco Bus Lakeland, 126 S. Kentucky Blvd., Lakeland
    What: Join Taco Bus between 7-10 p.m. for 99 cent tacos and a backpack giveaway! They have over 350+ backpacks in all colors. 1 is available per child who must be present to receive it.
    Contact: 863-816-5407
     
    2nd Annual Backpack Giveaway
    When: Saturday, August 3, 9-11 a.m.
    Where: Larry R Jackson Library, 1700 N Florida Ave., Lakeland
    What: Class of the Millennium Presents this giveaway event. Kids must be present to recieve a backpack, and first come, first served while supplies lasts.
     
    Back to School Bash
    When: Saturday, August 3, 10 a.m.-12 p.m.
    Where: Wilfred Smith Resource Center, 135 Avenue Y N.E., Winter Haven
    What: Join Polk County Parks & Recreation for this free family event featuring free school supplies for children entering kindergarten through fifth grade (first come, first served). Families will also enjoy music, arts & crafts, prizes, educational exhibitors and children activities. Parent and child must be present to receive school supplies.
    Contact: 863-298-7898
     
    Back to School Bash and Barbecue
    When: Saturday, August 3, 12-4 p.m.
    Where: Imperial Lakes Keller Williams Office, 5950 Imperial Lakes Boulevard, Mulberry
    What: This is a community event offering prizes, raffles, games and plates of barbeque for a $3 donation to help those in need of school supplies and Polk County Schools.
    Contact: 863-934-6134
     
    Back to School Supplies Giveaway
    When: Saturday, August 3, 12-4 p.m.
    Where: Frostproof Care Center, 17 South Scenic Hwy
    What: Frostproof students may stop into the Frostproof Care Center for free school supplies while supplies last, first come first served.
    Contact: 863-635-5555
     
    Blast Off Bartow Back to School Bash
    When: Saturday, August 3, 10 a.m.-3 p.m.
    Where: Carver Recreation Center, 520 South Idlewood Avenue, Bartow
    What: Student attendees Pre-K to 12th grade will be able to leave with free school supplies and information for the upcoming school year. There will be vendors offering food, free haircuts, backpacks, free health screenings, books, free clothes, shoes and more. Please register ahead of time as supplies will be first come, first served.
     
    Blast Off Bartow Back to School Fiesta
    When: Saturday, August 3, 6-8 p.m.
    Where: Lake Alfred Public Library, 245 N. Seminole Avenue, Lake Alfred
    What: Celebrate with the Lake Alfred Public Library at the Back to School Fiesta, free for all ages. Enjoy face-painting, refreshments, cookie-decorating, music, games, backpack raffle, and a school supply giveaway.
    Contact: 863-291-5378
     
    End of Summer Back to School Block Party
    When: Saturday, August 3, 10 a.m.-2 p.m.
    Where: Ultimate Dance Center lot, 2980 Lakeland Highlands Road, Lakeland
    What: Celebrate the end of summer and kick off another fresh school year with Ultimate Dance Center and M&M Backyard Adventures for a free day of fun with food and drink specials by Jade Fox, China 1 and Buddha’s Pub plus shaved ice and ice cream from Tikiz of Polk County and Tampa. They’ll be moonbounces, giant Legos, dancing, a live DJ, games, and more. OPEN to the public.
    Contact: 863-644-5275
     
    Lake Eva Back to School Bash
    When: Saturday, August 3, 10 a.m.-1 p.m.
    Where: Lake Eva Banquet Hall, 799 Johns Ave., Haines City
    What: This free community event is a great opportunity for parents and their children to receive needed school supplies. The bash will include: free backpacks, haircuts and food as well as access to the water park and entertainment. Register in advance online at www.uicpolk.org/events.
    Contact: 863-438-2758
     
    Mulberry’s Back to School Bash
    When: Saturday, August 3, 11 a.m.-2 p.m.
    Where: Mulberry High School Gym, 1 Panther Place, Mulberry
    What: For students who attend Kingsford or Purcell Elementary; This event features free hot dogs, games, snacks and a backpack with school supplies to the first 500 pre-registrants of Kingsford or Purchell Elementary.
    Contact: lholstein@cityofmulberry.com
     
    Summer Palooza
    When: Saturday, August 3, 10-2 p.m.
    Where: RP Funding Center-Jenkins Arena, Lakeland
    What: New Beginnings High School is hosting the annual Summer Palooza event so that families and children will have the necessary resources to go back to school. New Beginnings’ Summer Palooza will provide necessities along with guest speakers, entertainment, vendors, door prizes and more.
    Contact: Shawna Butler, 863-298-5666
     
    Back to School Jam
    When: Sunday, August 4, 5-8 p.m.
    Where: Winter Haven High School
    What: Join WiLD 94.1 at this free community event for students of any school featuring food trucks, giveaways, haircuts, performances, and more.
     
    Boost Mobile Back to School Event
    When: Sunday, August 4, 12-4 p.m.
    Where: Boost Mobile, 6840 S Florida Ave, Lakeland
    What:Score a new backpack and school supplies for your student at a participating Boost Mobile location during the back-to-school event. There will be music, games and fun for the whole family.
     
    Fresh Back to School Event
    When: Sunday, August 4, 1-5 p.m.
    Where: Kathleen High School, 1100 Red Devil Way, Lakeland
    What: PUSH’D and For the C.U.L.T.U.R.E presents this back-to-school event with food & drinks, activities, a DJ, and a backpack giveaway.
    Contact: fortheculture.iou@gmail.com
     
    Rock the Block Back to School Bash
    When: Friday, August 9-Sunday, August 11, 4-7:30 p.m.
    Where: Harvest Church Lakeland, 2120 Airport Rd., Lakeland
    What: Bring the entire family to this community event featuring giveaways, food, bounce houses and more.
    500 backpacks will be given out 4 p.m.
    Family Fun and games 4-6 p.m.
    Family Kidz Xplosion 6-7:30 p.m.
    Giveaways 7:30 p.m.
     
    Back to School Community Expo
    When: Saturday, August 10, 10 a.m.-2 p.m.
    Where: Florida Technical College Lakeland Campus, 4715 Florida Avenue S. #4, Lakeland
    What: Learn about Florida Technical College’s programs while enjoying live music from Hot 101.5, exhibitors, campus tours, free food, family activities and free backpacks with school supplies kits, while supplies lasts To participate, you must register in person on campus.
     
    Back to School Supply Giveaway
    When: Saturday, August 10 12-2 p.m.
    Where: DUTCH Seafood Takeout, 817 north mass., Lakeland
    What: Who’s Who in Business and Dutch Seafood present this event featuring gift card raffles, face painting, a bounce house and seafood special. To donate items for the supply event, drop off items Dutch Seafood or Crystal’s World of Dance (801 N Massachusetts).
    Contact: pcwwb.fl@gmail.com, 8636405832
     
    Rent King Back 2 School Bash
    When: Saturday, August 10, 11 a.m.-5 p.m.
    Where: Rent King, 2610 US Hwy 92 E, Lakeland, Florida 33801
    What: Get back-to-school ready with Rent King where you’ll find back to school deals of the summer, backpack and gift card giveaways, and free food & drinks and activities for the kids.
    Contact: 863-802-1928; rentking009@hotmail.com
     
    Belk Back-to-School Charity Sale
    When: Saturday, August 24, 6 a.m.-9 p.m.
    Where: Belk, 1400 Town Center Dr., Lakeland
    What: The Belk Charity Sale is a private sale dedicated to supporting local nonprofits. The Learning Resource Center, as well as other participating charities and schools, will have the opportunity to raise money by selling $5 tickets, and keeping 100% of ticket proceeds. Ticket holders will receive 20% – 70% off of Belk purchases storewide, including special savings on rarely-discounted brands plus $5 off their purchase. The presale takes place August 12-23. Stop into the Learning Resource Center (1628 S. Florida Ave., Lakeland) to pick up your tickets today!
     

    Donation Drives

    Stuff the Bus
    Stuff the Bus is Central Florida’s largest back-to-school campaign. In addition to the traditional school supplies that are needed such as pens, pencils, wide rule paper, folders with prongs, crayons, markers, backpacks, glue and erasers, you may also donate copy paper, facial tissue, index cards, highlighters, hand sanitizer, zip lock bags, and pencil boxes.
     
    – Lakeland: Now at the Learning Resource Center (1628 S. Florida Ave.)
    – Lakeland: Wednesday, August 7, 7-9 a.m. with Emerge Lakeland at the RP Funding Center (404 W. Lime St.)- Volunteer to organize supply donations
    – Lakeland: August 7, 7-8:30 a.m. at Hall Communications (404 West Lime St.)
    – Bartow: Now at the Bartow Chamber (510 N. Broadway Ave. in Bartow)
     
     

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    2018 Back-to-School Events and Supply Drives

    It’s that time again! Find 2018 back-to-school bashes and donation drives in Polk County by scrolling below.
     
    <a href="https://www.freepik.com/free-psd/slate-mockup-with-back-to-school-concept_2656707.htm">Designed by Freepik</a>
    Graphic designed by Freepik
     

    Upcoming Dates

    Student orientation: Thursday, August 9
    First day of school for students: Monday, August 13
     
    Tax-free holiday: August 3-5
     

    Bashes

    Back to School Snack Pack
    When: Wednesday, August 1, 1:30-2:30 p.m.
    Where: Renaissance at Washington Ridge Property: Senior Building, 150 W 14th St., Lakeland
    What: Gear up for school, and get ideas on how to fuel your kids with healthy snacks that are affordable, easy, and delicious with this free event from UF/IFAS Extension Polk County Family and Consumer Sciences. There will even be food demonstration!!
    Contact: 863-519-1041, andreanikolai@ufl.edu
     
    End of Summer Back to School Bash
    When: Wednesday, August 1, 6-8 p.m.
    Where: Gibsonia Baptist Church, 5440 U.S. 98N, Lakeland
    What: This free back-to-school event by the Gibsonia Baptist Church includes games, food and fun.
    Contact: 863-858-3321
     
    Back to School Carnival
    When: Friday, August 3, 10 a.m.-1 p.m.
    Where: Brookdale Highlands, 4250 Lakeland Highlands Rd., Lakeland
    What: The carnival is $10 for adults and free for children 10 and younger. The proceeds will benefit the Alzheimer’s Association. Ticket purchases will include a plate of food (ribs, sliders and sides). Attendees will find a petting zoo, dunk tank, games, face painting, water balloon toss and ice cream truck. The first 30 children will receive a backpack filled with school supplies.
    Contact: 863-701-7820
     
    Back to School First Friday
    When: Friday, August 3, 6 p.m. – 9 p.m.
    Where: Downtown Lakeland
    What: Join the Downtown Lakeland Partnership, MidFlorida & St. Leo University as well as community vendors in celebrating the start of a new school year with school-themed activities. First Friday features free family-friendly entertainment, activities, live music, art receptions, a car show, and the opportunity to check out a great, locally-owned restaurant or retail establishment on the first Friday of each month.
    Contact: info@downtownlakelandfl.com
     
    Back to School Bash
    When: Saturday, August 4, 10 a.m.-12 p.m.
    Where: Wilfred Smith Resource Center, 135 Avenue Y N.E., Winter Haven
    What: Join Polk County Parks & Recreation for this free family event featuring free school supplies for children entering kindergarten through the fifth grade (first come, first served). Families will also enjoy music, arts & crafts, prizes, educational exhibitors and children activities.
    Contact: 863-298-7898, borisrodriguez@polk-county.net
     
    Back to School Community Expo
    When: Saturday, August 4, 10 a.m.-2 p.m.
    Where: Florida Technical College Lakeland Campus, 4715 Florida Avenue S. #4, Lakeland
    What: Learn about Florida Technical College’s programs while enjoying live music from Hot 101.5, exhibitors, campus tours, free food, family activities and free backpacks with school supplies kits.
    Contact: Make your reservation at evenbrite.com/e/back-to-school-community-expo-tickets-47555133685.
     
    Back to School Jam
    When: Saturday, August 4, 10 a.m.-2 p.m.
    Where: Auburndale City Park
    What: This event is free, but donations are encouraged and will be accepted. Attendees will be able to enjoy food, games, prizes, music, entertainment, face painting, raffles, a bookbag giveaway and more.
    Contact: 321-304-0472, angelsofdestiny2@gmail.com
     
    Bounce Back Party
    When: Saturday, August 4, 10 a.m.-2 p.m.
    Where: New Horizon Church, 400 Orchid Drive, Haines City
    What: New Horizon Church’s free event for children in preschool through fifth grade will feature bounce houses, activities, games, crafts and foods.
    Contact: office@nhcpolk.org
     
    Mulberry’s Back to School Bash
    When: Saturday, August 4, 11 a.m.-2 p.m.
    Where: Mulberry High School Gym, 1 Panther Place, Mulberry
    What: The Heart of Florida Arbor and the Ministerial Alliance will be distributing backpacks (pre-registration is required) and hot dogs to celebrate the start of a new school year. Bounce houses and more will make this a fun event.
    Contact: 863-427-2290
     
    Summer Palooza
    When: Saturday, August 4, 1-5 p.m.
    Where: Simpson Park, 1725 Martin Luther King Jr. Ave., Lakeland
    What: New Beginnings High School is hosting the annual Summer Palooza event so that families and children will have the necessary resources to go back to school. New Beginnings’ Summer Palooza will provide necessities along with educational guest speakers, a warm meal, and entertainment throughout the morning.
    Contact: Shawna Butler, 863-298-5666
     
    Back to School Snack Pack
    When: Tuesday, August 7, 3-4 p.m.
    Where: Carrington Place Community Room, 1411 Kettles Ave., Lakeland
    What: Gear up for school, and get ideas on how to fuel your kids with healthy snacks that are affordable, easy, and delicious with this free event from UF/IFAS Extension Polk County Family and Consumer Sciences. There will even be food demonstration!!
    Contact: 863-519-1041, andreanikolai@ufl.edu
     
    Rock the Block Back to School Bash
    When: Friday, August 10-Sunday, August 12, 4-8 p.m.
    Where: Harvest Church Lakeland, 2120 Airport Rd., Lakeland
    What: Bring the entire family to this free community event featuring giveaways, free backpacks, free haircuts, a health fair, hot dogs, cotton candy, bounce houses and more.
    Contact: 863-682-7000
     
    Back to School: Party at the Pool
    When: Saturday, August 11, 10 a.m.-2 p.m.
    Where: Spence Park, NE 1st St., Mulberry
    What: Kick off the start of school with a Moana meet and greet, waterslides and the pool fun in Mulberry.
    Contact: 863-393-8166
     
    Lake Eva Back to School Bash
    When: Saturday, August 11, 10 a.m.-1 p.m.
    Where: Lake Eva Banquet Hall, 799 Johns Ave., Haines City
    What: This free community event is a great opportunity for parents and their children to receive needed school supplies. The bash will include: free backpacks, haircuts and food as well as bouncy houses, guest speakers and a special appearance by Smart Mouth’s Jason Alexander.
    Contact: 863-438-2758
     
    Belk Back-to-School Charity Sale
    When: Saturday, August 25, 6-10 a.m. (& later)
    Where: Belk, 1400 Town Center Dr., Lakeland
    What: The Belk Charity Sale is a private sale dedicated to supporting local nonprofits. The Learning Resource Center as well as other participating charities and schools will have the opportunity to raise money by selling $5 tickets, and keeping 100% of ticket proceeds. Ticket holders will receive 20% – 70% off of Belk purchases storewide, including special savings on rarely-discounted brands plus $5 off their purchase. The presale takes place August 13-24. Stop into the Learning Resource Center (1628 S. Florida Ave., Lakeland) to pick up your tickets today!
     

    Donation Drives

    Back to School Personal Hygiene Product Drive
    When: Taking place now
    Where: Top Buttons Upscale Boutique, 236 N. Kentucky Ave., Lakeland
    What: In preparation for the upcoming school year, Top Buttons is collecting BRAND NEW personal hygiene items for the young ladies in the Wearing Confidence Program! Donate any of the suggested items below (at either of our locations) and receive $5 off any upscale thrift item.
    Toothpaste, Shampoo/Conditioner, Hair brushes, Deodorant, Feminine Products, Body soap, Lotion
    Contact: 863-450-4060, info@topbuttons.org
     
    Miracle Toyota School Supply Drive
    When: Now Through Wednesday, August 8
    Where: Miracle Toyota, 37048 US-27, Haines City
    What: Miracle Toyota in Haines City is planning to donate 1,500 backpacks to children in Haines City. The dealership has worked with Bethune Academy, Trinity Worship Center and Church Manantial de Bendiciones over the years to make sure students are equipped for success. This year, the dealership will donate additional backpacks for each car that’s sold, but it welcomes donations of backpacks or school supplies from those not looking to buy a car, as well.
     
    Stuff the Bus
    Stuff the Bus is Central Florida’s largest back-to-school campaign. In addition to the traditional school supplies that are needed such as pens, pencils, wide rule paper, folders with prongs, crayons, markers, backpacks, glue and erasers, you may also donate copy paper, facial tissue, index cards, highlighters, hand sanitizer, zip lock bags, and pencil boxes.
     
    – Lakeland: August 8, 7-8:30 a.m. at Hall Communications (404 West Lime St.)
    – Lakeland: Through Sunday, August 5 at Victory Church (1401 Griffin Road)
    – Bartow: Accepting donations now; Event: August 17, 5 p.m. at the Bartow Chamber (510 N. Broadway Ave. in Bartow)
     
    LEGOLAND Florida School Supply Drive
    When: August 2018
    Where: LEGOLAND Florida, 1 Legoland Way, Winter Haven
    What: Amusement park visitors are encouraged to bring new and unopened school supplies to donate to homeless students at Polk County Public Schools, through the Homeless Education Advocates Restoring the Hope program. Standard parking is also free at LEGOLAND Florida during the month of August.
     
    Mattress Firm Foster Kids School Supply Drive
    When: Now through Sunday, September 2
    Where: Florida Mattress Firm locations
    What: Advocates for Florida’s foster children have launched a back-to-school donation drive. Donations of backpacks filled with essential classroom items can be dropped off at Mattress Firm locations throughout the state. The drive is co-sponsored by the nonprofit Ticket to Dream Foundation and the Florida Department of Children and Families. Visit mattressfirmfosterkids.org for store locations and more information.
     
     

    Search #LRCback2school on Facebook and Twitter to find more posts, blogs and information from LRC on back-to-school 2018 in Polk County.

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    PigFest 2018 Event Info

    The 22nd Annual Lakeland PigFest is almost here!

    PIGFEST 2018


    The festival will open to the public on Friday, January 26, 2018 from 5-10 p.m. and Saturday, January 27, 2018 from 10 a.m.-5 p.m. at SUN ‘n FUN in Lakeland.
     
    Unlike in years past, there will be no fee for parking. Instead, there will be a $2.00 admission fee per person. Children 12 and under will be admitted for free. Once inside, stop by a Pig Bucks tent and exchange your cash for Pig Bucks. Purchasing food from competition teams, will support their efforts as well as local charities like LRC.
     
    The competition will heat up with the Kingsford Professional BBQ (sanctioned by the Kansas City Barbecue Society), Publix Super Markets Backyard and Badcock Kids-Q events. There will also be plenty of entertainment featuring kids’ games, simulator racecars and live music.
     
    LRC Belk Charity Sale 2017
     
    Visit LakelandPigFest.org for more information.
    Photo: LakelandPigFest.org
     

    PIGFEST COMMUNITY


    What attendees may not realize is that PigFest takes hundreds of volunteers and thousands of volunteer hours to help carry out the event, and local nonprofits, such as the Learning Resource Center, partner to provide the needed amount of volunteers. PigFest then gives every dollar raised back to the community!
     
    By granting the Learning Resource Center opportunities and funds based on service hours, PigFest has helped provide academic assistance and highly-qualified tutors to help students succeed and has also enabled LRC to meet the needs of students, parents and the community by aiding in the expenses of daily operation. The effect this annual barbeque festival has had on LRC reaches every aspect of the organization. Those who received any service from LRC in 2017 were impacted by its support.
     

    VOLUNTEER AT PIGFEST


    If you are interested in assisting at the event, please click: VOLUNTEER AT PIGFEST.
    LRC will provide volunteers for shifts taking place in the judging, team breakfast, VIP party and golf cart shuttle areas on Wednesday, January 24-Saturday, January 27, 2018. To view the available shifts and to register, please click the above link.
     
    We look forward to seeing you there! Whether you’re a competitor, attendee or volunteer, it’s sure be a fun weekend.
     
     

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    Stay Connected and up to date with information.

    Address:

    1628 Florida Ave S.
    Lakeland, FL 33803

    Phone:

    (863) 688-9477

    Office Hours:

    Monday – Thursday: 7:30 a.m. – 5:30 p.m.
    Friday: 7:30 a.m. – 4 p.m.
    Saturday – Sunday: Closed

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    © Copyright – Learning Resource Center | Site Designed by: MaximizeDigital.com

    Address:

    1628 Florida Ave S.
    Lakeland, FL 33803

    Phone:

    (863) 688-9477

    Office Hours:

    Monday – Thursday: 7:30 a.m. – 5:30 p.m.
    Friday: 7:30 a.m. – 4 p.m.
    Saturday – Sunday: Closed

    Stay Connected

    LRC FacebookLRC TwitterLRC LinkedIn

    © Copyright – Learning Resource Center | Site Designed by: MaximizeDigital.com