Aug 02, 2025

USD 475 hosts Back-to-School Carnival

Posted Aug 02, 2025 3:40 AM
The entire football field was covered with attendees for the 2025 Back to School Carnival on Friday night.
The entire football field was covered with attendees for the 2025 Back to School Carnival on Friday night.

By Anthony Gorges

JC Post

Over 3,000 people attended the USD 475 back-to-school carnival on Friday night at Junction City High School. At the event, more than 100 vendors/community partners were in attendance, the most in the carnival's history.

The event featured performances by the Junction City High School band and cheer team, carnival games, face painting, free prizes, and complimentary food (including popcorn and cotton candy).

The organizer of the carnival was Matt Hoover, the Communications Coordinator for the school district. “This was an amazing event,” Matt Hoover said. “It’s so great to have our community members out and joining in the festivities. I am happy so many people were able to come out and have some fun.”

This was the fifth year of the carnival, and Superintendent of Schools Dr. Reginald Eggleston said the event just keeps getting bigger each year. “This event just keeps growing,” Dr. Eggleston said. “Each year, more organizations and community agencies have been taking advantage of this opportunity to provide support to our school district and our families. We do appreciate it.”

School is just around the corner, with many faculty and staff already back in the buildings preparing for the 2025-2026 school year. Geary County Schools - USD 475 begins school on Monday, August 11. When asked about his message to students, Dr. E had this to say. “Get ready. We are excited to have you back.  Come in with the right attitude and mindset so you can be successful this year.”

Dr. Eggleston and Matt Hoover both agree that the annual Back To School Carnival is a positive way to get families and students ready for the upcoming school year.

Below are pictures from the event at Blue Jay Stadium.

JCHS Band performing
JCHS Band performing
One of the many inflatables that kids were able to participate in. JCHS students and athletes volunteered to help at the event. 
One of the many inflatables that kids were able to participate in. JCHS students and athletes volunteered to help at the event. 
Adam Cooke - Geary County Convention and Visitors Bureau
Adam Cooke - Geary County Convention and Visitors Bureau
Junction City Main Street - Makena Krause
Junction City Main Street - Makena Krause
Dorothy Bramlage Public Library
Dorothy Bramlage Public Library
JCHS Cheer team
JCHS Cheer team
Geary County K-State Extension
Geary County K-State Extension