Unaka Elementary School will host a special open house on Tuesday, and they are inviting community members and families to “pop in” to visit with them.

The event will take place at the school on Tuesday, August 22, from 4 to 6 p.m.

Principal Dr. Diana Bowers said she and the staff are using the theme “Pop In For Open House” to play off the fact they will have a popcorn bar set up for visitors.

“We’re going to have door prizes to give out,” Bowers said. “All the local restaurants have donated prizes.”

This is Bowers’ first year as principal at the school. She previously served as the Assistant Principal at Happy Valley High School.

One of the reasons Bowers wanted to host the open house is because she is new to the school.

“This will give them the chance to meet me and to meet the rest of the staff,” Bowers said regarding the event. “I want to get as many parents through the door as we can, and I want them to know it’s their school, too.”

During the event, families can tour their child’s classroom in addition to meeting the school’s staff. Bowers said the school will also be handing out information about programs available and upcoming school events.

One of the things Bowers hopes to implement this year are workshops for parents and families of the students to help them not only support their student in their education but to also have access to services they might need as well. Bowers said she hopes to put together workshop sessions on things such as managing stress, available educational programs, how to obtain counseling, GED programs, and a variety of other topics.

“I want them to understand we are there for them,” Bowers said. “It’s the community’s school, and I want it to feel that way.”

For more information on the Open House event, contact Unaka Elementary School at 423-474-4110.