WCPS Community Fun Day is a Fulfillment of Leadership Vision to Bring the Entire Community Together

Whether it’s the Rotary Club or the Cub Scouts, the Sheriff’s Office or C&C Frozen Treats, the Warren County community is a treasure trove of talent with a big heart, and nowhere was it so prominently on display as Saturday, August 10, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., at the Warren County High School where the community came together for Community Fun Day. Young people had the opportunity to get close to animals, enjoy a free train ride, release energy in the bounce house, get the mayor wet at the dunking tank, and otherwise sample the many offerings from members of the community who are invested in the future.

Young people get up close and personal with animals at Community Fun Day. Royal Examiner Photo Credits: Brenden McHugh.

Wildcat needs a haircut. Blake & Co. Hair Spa is the one for the job! Photo courtesy of Amy Mawyer.

Superintendent Christopher Ballenger highlighted the importance of building relationships within the community. “Today is just about community and about building relationships,” Ballenger remarked, emphasizing the school system’s commitment to serving the community by bringing people together and offering essential services. Reflecting on the day’s success, he noted the impressive turnout and the diverse range of service providers present to support families as they prepare for the new school year. “We’re giving away backpacks, haircuts, and other services to help support our families and community,” he added, underscoring the role of Warren County Public Schools as a community-focused organization.

The Rotary Club at its Front Royal and Warren County levels are both represented at Community Fun Day. (L) Lynn Downs and (R) Lori Glascock represent the Front Royal Rotary; in the middle, Councilman Glenn Wood represents the Warren County Rotary.

Kids receive a free train ride.

WCHS Principal Ken Knesh echoed these sentiments, celebrating the joy on students’ faces and the unified effort of the community. “It’s not necessarily the schools or the Sheriff’s Department; we’re all together, and I think that’s the most important thing,” Knesh said, describing the event as a day where everyone comes together in support of the kids. Mayor Lori Cockrell also praised the event’s perfect timing, just before the school year begins, and its impact on the children, providing them with the necessary supplies and confidence to start the year strong. “It’s always good to see everybody in the community working together for the common good of the kids,” she concluded, highlighting the spirit of cooperation that made the day special.

The Wildcats are gearing up for a full season.

Whether the Cub Scouts instill values that launch the youth into careers spanning the military and the IT industry, Stone Branch Center for the Arts offers classes, camps, and workshops, or Connected Communities provides mental health services, every organization present on Community Fun Day gives value to the Warren County community, playing a role in promoting connectedness, care, and leadership through public service. With these community giants standing in solidarity with Warren County Public Schools, this coming Tuesday is a little bit less intimidating.

Above: Mayor Lori Cockrell, fresh out of the dunking tank, stands beside FRPD Chief Kahle Magalis as he takes his turn. Below: Superintendent Christopher Ballenger prepares to be dunked.

(L) to (R): Sarah, Christian, and Rory Downs stop by the Warren County Sheriff’s Office’s tent during Community Fun Day. Christian is an employee of the Office.