Back to school backpacks

The Review-Journal’s Leadership Excellence Achievement Program Class of 2013 presented 350 backpacks filled with school supplies to the students of Williams Elementary School in Las Vegas.

The ceremony, held before classes began Monday, including a performance by magician Mac King.

King, who regularly visits local schools through his own National Literacy Tour, said Williams was one of the first schools he visited.

“Books changed my life. I got a magic book at the library when I was a kid,” he said.

King said the idea that children don’t have their own books or school supplies is pretty heart-wrenching.

Principal Sherrian McGlothen said she was as excited as the students to see the backpacks and supplies and appreciated the support of the school’s community partners.

“I truly believe it takes a village to raise a child,” she said. “Our theme this year is goal setting, and the materials these children are receiving today will help them with their goals.”

By HALI BERNSTEIN SAYLOR/LAS VEGAS REVIEW-JOURNAL