Watkins Mill High School will be hosting its first ever “Rock The Block” event on Saturday, June 3 from 3pm-6pm. Everyone in the community is welcome to come out and enjoy.

“We got so much [positive] stuff going on here…and I want people to see that [through this event],” Johnson said. “[Rock the Block] is all about is community and bringing everyone together to spread positive spirit around Watkins Mill High School and all of our cluster schools.”

The idea of Rock The Block came from Orange Nation sponsor Matthew Johnson. A couple names were tossed around between a few staff members and feedback was given to the name choices. “Rock The Block” was what really stuck with everyone.

“We’re going to have a couple of food trucks [selling their food], but we’re also going to give away free hot dogs, water, chips, and there will be [other] free food as well,” Principal Carol Goddard said. Kona Ice and Sweetz Cheesecake will be some of the food trucks at the event.

Staff have been advertising the event to attract the attention of companies who provide fun interactions such as moon bounces, clowns, balloon twisters, and possibly a rock climbing wall. The event will also provide carnival games for the youth, with the opportunity for people to win prizes.

Not only will there be carnival games and food, but there will also be performances throughout the day, from multiple clubs and associations at Watkins Mill. Performances will include, OLAS, African Student Association (ASA), band, chambers, and plenty of others. 

Due to the size of this event there will be many student, teacher and parent volunteers  Student Service Learning (SSL) hours will be given to students. ““I have about 20 staff volunteers, 10 parent volunteers, and i have over 90 student volunteers,” Johnson added.

With this end of the year celebration, staff and students hope that creating a day of fun-filled activities will bring excitement to the community. “There’s no question this is [going to] turnout good. I’m very confident about the direction of this event already,” Johnson said. If the event is successful there will be similar future events.

“I want them to leave [the event] saying ‘wow that was a really great time Watkins Mill just put on a great event’…It raises awareness that we are doing great things and they wanna come back for more,” Johnson added. “As soon as this thing is done, I’m already going to start planning the second next one.”