LaGRANGE — Although public schools don’t start back until Aug. 10, students returned to Ethel Kight Elementary School on Thursday for an annual Back-to-School Bash.

The event featured food, games, school supplies and entertainment for the students, their families and teachers, and Candace McGhee, the school’s principal, said the bash was aimed at building a stronger school community.

“We’re looking forward to a good year,” she said. “Our theme this year is ‘Better Together,’ and we want the teachers, the parents and the school to work together for our students.”

Churches, civic organizations and local companies all donated back-to-school supplies for children, and the event’s organizers put together a clothing swap for parents to find new clothes for their students, as well as donate ones they’ve outgrown.

Free haircuts were also available for the students, along with face painting and games like cornhole and sack races.

Schools across Troup County will begin the registration process for students next week. Middle school registration for enrolled students will be held on Tuesday from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. and high school registration for enrolled students will be Wednesday from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Parents can find more information, including school supply lists, by visiting the Troup County School System’s website at www.troup.org. The school system can also be contacted by calling 706-812-7900.