By GRAHAM BROOKS / Staff Writer

HELENA–Traditions are special. Whether it is with family, work or elsewhere, it’s something that many people hold dear to their heart.

Helena Elementary School hosts several traditions throughout the year it considers special with the first one taking place at the beginning of a new school year.

For more than a decade, HES has hosted a back to school picnic during the first week school and on Friday, Aug. 11, that tradition continued as students and parents were welcomed back with food and fun.

Traditionally held outside, the Helena Elementary School Parent Teacher Organization hosts the picnic as a fun way to kickoff the new school year.

Due to the threat of rain on Aug. 11, the picnic was moved inside to the cafeteria but the fun and excitement remained the same as PTO volunteers passed out approximately 800 free hot dogs, chips, cookies and beverages to parents and students.

“This has been going on a long time and it’s just a preemptive thank you to the parents,” HES PTO President Amber Bordelon said. “They’re so generous and this is just a way to thank them and get the school year started right.”

In addition to the food, DJ Big Robb of Hot 107.7 in Birmingham played several songs throughout the event that kept the students dancing and having fun.

Parents took pictures and interacted with HES teachers and faculty members while enjoying the free food.

“The kids love to dance and it’s a way to let their energy out after being in school all day,” Bordelon said. “I think there’s just something about the tradition of it that makes the picnic so neat.”

For more information on events at HES throughout the school year, visit Shelbyed.k12.al.us/schools/hes/.