Back-to-school preparedness event

MIAMI (WSVN) -- Parents, teachers and students attended a back-to-school preparedness event at the American Airlines Arena Sunday.

Members of the National PTA and the Miami Heat Organization helped hand out 500 backpacks to students in need before the 2009 school year.

Officials stressed preparedness for parents and students alike to ensure a successful school year.

"Today we're doing a number of things. Number one: celebrating the value of education. Two: welcoming children and parents back to school. School kicks off on the 24th, and the time is now to get them ready," said Miami-Dade County School Superintendent Alberto Carvalho.

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