Submitted by Hamilton Southeastern Schools
Hamilton Southeastern Schools will hold its fourth annual Before the Bell celebration from 5:30 to 7 p.m. Thursday, July 31 at the Nickel Plate District Amphitheater. Presented by Meijer, this free, family-focused event serves as a festive kickoff to the 2025-26 school year.
The evening will feature live performances from student groups representing both high schools and junior highs, including bands, choirs, cheerleaders, and dance teams. Families can enjoy a wide variety of interactive and engaging activities throughout the event.
Young attendees can get up close and personal with barnyard animals at the FFA Petting Zoo, take on a kid-friendly obstacle course, and watch a high-energy performance from Bubble Jim on the center lawn. Balloon artists will be on-site twisting colorful creations, and inflatables will offer plenty of active fun for all ages. Families are also invited to stop by the Hamilton Southeastern Education Foundation’s photo booth to snap a fun back-to-school memory.
A variety of local food trucks will be available on-site so attendees can grab dinner and enjoy the evening together.
Information booths will be set up throughout the event, providing families the opportunity to meet school staff and connect with district departments such as Food Services, School Safety, Transportation, Student and Health Services. Community organizations will also be present to share resources and programs available to students and families throughout the year.
The event will take place rain or shine. In the event of inclement weather, it will move indoors to Fishers High School at the same time and date.
“Before the Bell is a wonderful example of the strong partnerships we have in this community,” Superintendent Pat Mapes said. “With the support of the City of Fishers and the Hamilton Southeastern Education Foundation, this event has grown into a fun, engaging tradition that brings our families together and builds excitement for the year ahead.”
Hamilton Southeastern Schools looks forward to welcoming the community as it “rings in the new school year” together.