After School Bash to support teachers with school supplies needed to equip students

Published on May 8, 2025

The Huntsville Police Department (HPD) and local nonprofit Free 2 Teach are teaming up once again – this time for the After School Bash, a community-wide celebration designed to support public school teachers with the supplies they need to equip students.

Set for Saturday, June 7, from 4-8 p.m. at Big Spring Park, the event will feature bounce houses, live entertainment, local food trucks and vendors, police activity zones and more. Attendees are encouraged to bring school supply donations to help “Stuff the Squad Car,” with all items going directly to support Huntsville-area teachers through Free 2 Teach.

HPD South Precinct Commander, Captain Chris Riley, said events like this reflect the department’s commitment to meaningful community engagement.

“When we invest in our teachers, we invest in our students – ultimately investing in the future of our City.” Riley said. “A well-supported classroom can unlock potential and give a student the confidence they need to believe in themselves and that’s a kind of safety and empowerment that no badge alone can provide.”

The After School Bash builds on the success of past collaborations between HPD and Free 2 Teach, including their Back-to-School Bash events in previous years. Free 2 Teach CEO Alison Kling said she hopes this event becomes a lasting tradition.

“Our partnership with the Huntsville Police Department makes a significant impact on thousands of teachers and students,” Kling said. “The After School Bash will be a joyful community celebration with a powerful purpose: gather supplies to equip teachers and fill classrooms so that every child across our public schools has access to an equitable and excellent education.”

For educators like Michelle Cunningham, a math teacher at Morris Middle School, the impact of community support is deeply personal.

“As a teacher, we are helping your children – your niece, your nephew, your grandchild, your family member – become a productive citizen, a productive adult,” Cunningham said. “Events like this remind us we’re supported and appreciated.”