Staff and students gathered at the Wayne D. Boshears Center to celebrate the opening of the East Texas State Fair with a spirited Roundup Day. Director Brooke Parker and her team welcomed students, teachers, and staff as they came together in true community fashion to honor a cherished East Texas tradition.
The day began with excitement as students and staff arrived dressed in western wear, proudly showing off cowboy hats, boots, and plaid shirts. The spirit of Texas pride was on full display, setting the stage for a day filled with fair-inspired fun and learning.
On the playground and Sunshine Spot, students lined up to try their luck at classic fair games, including ring toss, duck pond, milk bottle knockdown, and even a mock petting zoo. Laughter and cheers filled the air as students celebrated each victory and encouraged their classmates.
Inside, specials teachers led lively activities such as square dancing, stick horse races, and potato sack races. Classroom teachers brought the fair indoors with lessons that blended learning and fun—students cooked fair foods, created arts and crafts, watched roller coaster videos, and played themed games.
The celebration not only highlighted the talents and creativity of students but also showcased the dedication of staff who worked together to make the event memorable. Roundup Day proved to be a perfect kickoff to fair season, reminding everyone of the joy that comes from community, tradition, and shared experiences.