10 Ways to Support Local This Back-to-School Season

Back to School Lawrence County Illinois

10 Ways to Support Local This Back-to-School Season

Back-to-school isn’t just about pencils and paper — it’s a time of transition, excitement, and (let’s be honest) a little chaos. Whether you’re a parent, student, teacher, or grandparent helping out, there are countless ways to make the season smoother and support our amazing local businesses in Lawrence County.

Here are 10 simple, impactful ways you can shop local, dine local, and stay local this back-to-school season:

1. ✂️ Book That Fresh Haircut or Self-Care Appointment

Start the school year feeling fresh and confident with a visit to one of our many locally owned salons or wellness centers. Whether it’s a first-day trim, a teacher treat-yourself moment, or just a back-to-school brow touch-up — we’ve got you covered:

📌 Don’t forget to book ahead – these spots fill fast this time of year!

2. 🧃 Grab-and-Go Drinks for Your Morning Rush or Study Sessions

We might not have a traditional coffee shop (yet 👀), but we have two great local spots ready to fuel your busy mornings:

  • Ginger Ales – Drive-thru drinks including iced coffee, energy drinks, flavored teas & more.

  • Sip It – Drive-thru and indoor seating, perfect for catching up on emails or after-school studying.

☕️ Coming Soon: A brand-new coffee shop is opening in Lawrence County! Stay tuned for updates from the Chamber once they’re ready to pour that first cup.

3. 🍽 🍽️ Pre-Order Ready-to-Eat Meals for Busy Weeknights

We all have those days when we’re juggling practices, meetings, and homework — or we’re simply too tired to cook after a long, hard day.

Make those nights easier by planning ahead with locally made, home-cooked meals from Whittaker Beef. Their ready-to-eat, meat-and-potato-style dinners bring that comforting homemade flavor — because they are homemade.

✨ Whether you’re craving something hearty or just need a quick solution for dinner, pre-order for convenient carry-out on:

  • Monday, Thursday & Friday
  • Between 4:00 PM – 7:30 PM

Support the locals, eat well, and take the stress out of dinner!

4. 🚗 Don’t Forget the Car Check-Up Before That Commute

Whether you’re heading to drop-off, practice, or work — make sure your vehicle is ready for the season with a visit to:

Neil’s Tire & Auto

From routine maintenance to tires and inspections, they’ve got your back (and your wheels).

5. 🧒 Explore After-School Programs & Childcare Options in Lawrence County

Parents, you don’t have to do it all alone! Lawrence County offers several trusted after-school programs and childcare options that provide a safe space for your children to learn, grow, and have fun while you tackle your busy schedule.

🐝 The Bee Hive (offered by the Lawrence County Health Department)
A safe and engaging environment where kids participate in structured activities, make friends, and feel supported after school. The Beehive is a great local option for working families who need peace of mind during those crucial after-school hours.

🌟 Bright Star Child Care (also operated by the Health Department)
BrightStar offers full-time childcare and after-school care in a nurturing setting. Their team is dedicated to supporting your child’s development through age-appropriate learning, play, and social interaction.

🎨 Ruby Studio – Lawrenceville
A local favorite for music and art classes that help kids grow in confidence and creativity after the school bell rings.
We’re all about using challenge, creativity, and connection to help students grow—both in their creative confidence and in their understanding of their great, unchangeable worth.
We help them see how challenges—& even a little pressure—can refine their talents and reveal all they’re capable of.
✨ NEW this August: Piano Express at Ruby Studio!
This fun and collaborative group piano class is designed to give students an amazing, integrative start to musicianship. Plus, we’re launching a very affordable after-school piano and art program — aiming to reach every child, regardless of their family’s financial situation. We truly believe this will be a game-changer for our community!

🩰 En Pointe Dance Academy – Lawrenceville
At En Pointe, we believe dance is more than just steps — it’s a powerful form of expression, discipline, and joy.
We offer a welcoming, supportive environment for dancers of all ages and experience levels!
Our age-appropriate classes blend movement, music, and imagination to help kids grow in confidence, coordination, and creativity — all while having fun and making new friends.

6. 🛍 Shop Local for School Supplies, Clothing & Spirit Wear

Support local retailers and get unique finds, school spirit gear, and trendy pieces all in one weekend:

7. 💪 Ease Back into Your Fitness Routine

Whether you’re a teacher getting back to schedule or a parent looking for time to reset, consider a fitness class, massage, or gym membership from:

  • New Leaf Fitness & Spa

  • Riverside Relief Massage

  • KB’s Wellness Programs

Supporting wellness businesses supports the people who support you.

8. 📅 Mark Your Calendar: Back-to-School Events in Lawrence County

Backpacks are being packed, school supplies are filling carts, and excitement is building across Lawrence County! Below are key dates and events happening this August in both Lawrenceville and Red Hill school districts — plus a special community event hosted by the Chamber!

🏫 Lawrenceville CUSD #20

📍 Parkside Elementary

  • Pre-K Screening – August 6 | 9:00 AM–2:00 PM
  • Meet the Teacher Night – August 11 | 4:30–5:30 PM

📍 Parkview Junior High

  • 6th Grade Orientation – August 12 | 4:00–4:30 PM
  • Meet the Teacher Night – August 12 | 4:30–5:30 PM

📍 Lawrenceville High School

  • Freshman & New Student Orientation – August 7 | 5:30 PM
  • Meet the Teacher Night – August 20 | 5:00–6:30 PM

🎉 Back-to-School Carnival

  • When: August 11 | 5:30–7:30 PM
  • Where: Ed Loeb Field @ LHS
    Enjoy food, games, and family fun as we kick off the school year together!

📌 First Day of School – Wednesday, August 13

🏫 Red Hill CUSD #10

📍 Bridgeport Grade School

  • Back-to-School Night – August 11 | 5:00–6:30 PM

📍 Sumner Attendance Center

  • Back-to-School Night – August 12 | 5:00–6:30 PM

📍 Red Hill Junior/Senior High School

  • Back-to-School Night – August 11 | 5:30–7:00 PM
  • Junior High Orientation – August 11 | 5:30 PM (North Gym)

Freshman & New Student Orientation – August 11 | 6:15 PM (North Gym)
📌 Note: All student schedules will be available beginning August 11.

🌾 Community Event: Harvest Hub

Hosted by the Lawrence County Chamber of Commerce
🗓 Friday, August 15 | 📍 Lanterman Park, Bridgeport
Join us for a vibrant evening with local vendors and food trucks — a perfect end to the first week back at school!

➡️ Stay tuned to our [Community Calendar] and follow us on Facebook for updates!

9. 🏫 Join the School Spirit Movement

From Red, White and Blue game day gear to personalized water bottles, local businesses are helping you cheer on our LHS Indians and RHHS Salukis teams in style:

  • Look for school merch at Hoke’s Endless Possibilities and other local retailers.

  • Coming soon: Details on Friday Night Lights coverage on our Facebook page!

10. 🛒 Use the Chamber Member Directory as Your Go-To Resource

Need a hair appointment? A last-minute gift? A quick dinner? Use our interactive member directory to find exactly what you need — from trusted professionals to hidden gems.

🔗 Click here to explore the Member Directory

💡 Final Thought

Back-to-school isn’t just for students — it’s a chance for the whole community to reconnect, reset, and rally together. Every time you choose a local service or small business, you’re helping a neighbor succeed.

Let’s make this season one of growth, gratitude, and great support for our Chamber family.

10 Ways to Support Local This Back-to-School Season

testimonial

What our members say about joining the chamber.

Lawrence County Memorial Hospital is proud to be a Larence County Chamber Member. Being a member helps keep us involved in community events and the needs of Lawrence County.

Chamber Board Member Heather Shultz
Heather Shultz Lawrence County Memorial Hospital

We appreciate being a Chamber member due to their social presence and the many events the LC chamber puts on!

Morgan Arnold Lawrence County Health Department

It has allowed me to make contacts with other business owners. Networking is a very important part of business.

Laura Hoke Hoke's Endless Possibilities, LLC

The Lawrence County Chamber offers a great opportunity to network with other businesses in our area! Highly recommend joining!

Beth Robinson State Farm Insurance

The Chamber's many events throughout the year allow us to network with current and future clientele.

Chamber Board Member Blayze Miller
Blayze Miller Cochran Insurance

I enjoy being a member of an organization that strives to make Lawrence County a better place.

Melissa Garrard Garrard Towing & Repair LLC

Lawrence County Chamber has helped us by getting our business more exposure on social media.

Kevin Thacker Sip It

Lawrence County Chamber have given us the ability to network with other community businesses.

Jim Weger Weger Backhoe Service

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