UTVA Families Kick Off the Year at Back to School Fair

There’s no better way to start a new school year than with bounce houses, cotton candy, a rock wall, and a chance to meet your teacher face-to-face. That’s exactly what Utah Virtual Academy (UTVA) families experienced at the Back to School Fair, held September 10 at Sugar House Park in Sugar House.

The fair gave hundreds of kindergarten through fifth grade students the chance to come together, play games, enjoy treats, and, most importantly, meet their teachers and classmates in person.

“Our students spend so much time in class, so being able to see their teachers and classmates face-to-face is incredibly meaningful,” said Lacey Robinson, UTVA Elementary School Principal. “You can feel the excitement when students recognize each other or run to hug their teacher.”

The evening included bounce slides, an obstacle course, yard games, cotton candy, popcorn, and snow cones. After the fun, students gathered in grade-level groups for activities designed by their teachers. Whether it was painting rocks, blowing homemade bubbles, or spotting a teacher in sparkly pants, every detail was planned to make students feel welcome and connected.

“Our teachers go above and beyond to make these connections special,” Robinson said. “When a teacher calls a student by name and the student lights up, that’s when you see the real impact. Those relationships carry into the classroom and strengthen learning.”

Families came from all over Utah, with some driving hours to attend. Robinson noted that new families, some who hadn’t even started classes yet, showed up and were able to meet their teachers and future classmates for the very first time.

“Building community is essential,” Robinson said. “We want students to feel seen, valued, and connected; not just to their teachers but to each other. That sense of belonging motivates them to learn and helps them thrive.”

The Back to School Fair is UTVA’s first big event of the year, but not the last. Smaller gatherings and grade-level outings are planned statewide in the coming months, giving students and families even more chances to stay connected.