Many parents said, with the difficult economy, they appreciated the help.
Gov. Pat Quinn spoke to students at the festival and encouraged them to be in class.
"I think one of the most important things we as adults can do for our children is to make sure that they have a good education, and this is all about back to school. We've got to be ready from the first day," said Quinn.
The governor will be at a Southwest Side school Tuesday to welcome students and their parents back.
