Sheriff Fest marks 20 years supporting Topeka Public Schools; organizers say program saved the district tens of thousands

The Topeka Public Schools board recognized Sheriff Fest on Thursday, showcasing a video and hearing remarks from organizers who described the longstanding partnership between churches, businesses and the district.

Pastor Brody, who addressed the board, said Sheriff Fest completed work at eight campus sites this year and "close to 700 total volunteers" participated, providing landscaping, painting and other maintenance help.

"Sheriff Fest has been happening for 20 years," Pastor Brody said, describing the event as a collaboration that brings churches and community groups together to support schools. He told the board the program uses promotional video and other outreach to recruit volunteers and aims to expand engagement across new groups.

Board members praised the effort and noted a financial benefit: a board speaker said Sheriff Fest saves the district roughly $50,000 to $100,000 annually by providing mulch, paint and labor the district would otherwise purchase.

Board members and staff said they plan to continue supporting Sheriff Fest and to use the program’s promotional materials to broaden volunteer recruitment in the coming year.