The Viewfinder: Back to School Party at Castro Elementary

Kids in the head back to school on Tuesday and to make the process smoother, held a a party—yes a party.

As a seven member mariachi band played Mexican Rancheras, some parents made one line to get the backpacks that the Mountain View store donated. In another line parents lined up to donate money for school supplies, sign up for the Parent Teachers Association and get a free hot dog and lemonade.

"It's a Castro tradition," said Principal Judy Crates. "It's when we post the class lists, we give out packets and because everybody is a little anxious, is a good idea to have a party."

Crates explained that when parents get the packets on Friday, Aug. 19, they can read them over the weekend and get more organized for the first day of school.

"It's great community building to start off the year," Crates said.