Looking for the Helpers: Santa Barbara Junior High welcomes kids back to school with drive-thru

As our area is faced with ongoing changes due to a growing pandemic, we are bringing stories of people doing good in the community during a time of uncertainty.

Help us look for the helpers!

Back to School Drive-Thru

Santa Barbara Junior High School held a special drive-thru event to welcome kids back to school while fostering a sense of community during the pandemic.

On Friday, teachers, staff and the PTSA lined Cota Street to meet and cheer on students as they drove by school.

Students also received special 'Welcome Back' bags filled with a water bottle, mask, student agenda and snacks.

Students, who are still learning from home, got to interact with their teachers beyond their computer screens.

New Principal James Koening said he wants to boost morale while letting kids know they are seen and cared for.

"It's an opportunity for everyone to see each other and build a community despite the restrictions of COVID-19," Koening said. "To our students, I want to say, 'Enjoy these bags. Enjoy the goodies that are in them, and we got your back."

The drive-thru event capped off Spirit Week at SBJHS. Each day a themed activity was encouraged.

Know of any other helpers making a difference during these trying times? Send Alys an email and let her know!