AAPS welcomes English learners at annual Back to School Fair

Event connects English Learner families with staff, school supplies, and community resources

Ann Arbor Public Schools welcomed English Learner families back to the district Friday with its annual Back to School English Learner Fair, held at King Elementary School. The event drew about 400 people from 163 families, who came to pick up school supplies, connect with district staff and community partners, and meet other AAPS families ahead of the new school year.

Families attended one of two sessions, held from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. and 2 to 3:30 p.m. Each session offered district information, enrollment support, student success tips, school supplies, games, and lunch for participating families.

Representatives from several district departments and community partners were on hand to connect with families, including Enrollment, Transportation, Food Services, the Office of Special Education, the Ann Arbor District Library, and Adult ESL/Education.

Superintendent Jazz Parks, pausing from greeting families, said she is grateful that English Learner families are part of the AAPS community

“I’m excited to welcome our English Learner students and families to the 2026-2027 school year,” said Parks.  “As we look forward to the start of the school year, I want our EL families to know that they are seen, valued, and welcomed here in the Ann Arbor Public Schools.”

AAPS is one of the most linguistically diverse districts in the state, with more than 75 languages spoken among its students and families. About 1,800 English learners are enrolled in the district’s English Learner Program for the upcoming year.

For district staff, the fair was about more than the freebies they took home in their new backpacks.

“More than anything, we want them to experience the fair with warmth. We hope they leave feeling good about having the resources and school supplies they need, and that they enjoy the time to connect with other AAPS families,” said Huda Harajli, Director of English Learner Programs.

Harajli said the event reflects the district’s broader commitment to welcoming families and staying connected with them throughout the school year. The fair gave families a chance to connect with the English Learner community while showcasing the district’s commitment to supporting all students and their families as they begin the new year.

More information about AAPS English Learner Programs is available here.